As part of an inquiry, an independent scientific committee has noted in its final report that an existing ban on hydraulic fracturing in the Northern Territory (NT), Australia, could be lifted subject to the fulfilment of certain requirements.
Commissioned more than a year ago, the inquiry stated that risks associated with the onshore shale gas industry in the state could be managed if 135 recommendations were met. The inquiry has called for wholesale implementation if the NT Government chooses to revoke the moratorium.
The inquiry chair Justice Rachel Pepper said: “This report provides recommendations to mitigate to acceptable levels the identified risks associated with any onshore shale gas development in the NT if the government lifts the moratorium.
“No industry is without risk, and any onshore shale gas industry is no exception.
“However, it is the panel’s opinion, expressed in the final report that if all of the recommendations are implemented, the identified risks associated with any onshore shale gas industry can be mitigated or reduced to an acceptable level, and in some cases, the risks can be eliminated.”
The committee urged the government to ensure that there is no net increase in greenhouse gas emissions in Australia from the development of any onshore shale gas produced in the NT.
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By GlobalDataPepper further added: “The decision whether or not to retain the ban on hydraulic fracturing in the NT is a political decision that rests with the government alone.”
Some of the recommendations include completion of a strategic regional environmental and baseline assessments (SREBA) to provide detailed information on the groundwater resources prior to the development of any onshore shale gas industry.
Land released for shale gas development should be environmentally, socially and culturally appropriate for use, the report noted.
NT Chief Minister Michael Gunner said: “Once the final report has been carefully considered, we will do what we have always promised Territorians: either ban fracking in the NT or allow it in highly regulated circumstances in tightly prescribed areas.
“We will not put at risk existing fishing, farming, tourism and cattle jobs for the possibility of jobs from fracking.”
