Environmental laboratory
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UK energy minister Charles Hendry has discussed the possibility of drilling for shale gas, following environmental analysis by independent firm Caudrilla.
The organisation looked into the impact that hydraulic fracturing operations, or "fracking", would have on the north-west of England.
Mr Hendry has suggested although it is far too early to make any concrete promises, the government will scrutinise Caudrilla's report closely.
He admitted the potential for generating power from shale gas is "worth exploring" and believes the energy source could bring about significant economic benefits.
"This is a potentially important addition to our energy resources, but its development must be done in a way that carries public confidence," he remarked.
However, the World Wildlife Fund recently voiced its fears about the widespread process of fracking, which it claimed can have a negative impact on air, water and soil quality.
It also highlighted a report that showed fracking had caused a minor earthquake in the north-west of England.
Posted by Lauren Steadman
IET 36.3 May
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