An ELI Research Seminar
Regulation of hydraulic fracturing varies around the globe from complete moratoria (e.g., France) to those jurisdictions actively encouraging the expansion of shale gas development (e.g., Poland). Most countries fall somewhere in the middle and have yet to articulate a comprehensive regulatory approach. Just as each country’s geography presents obstacles to and opportunities for hydraulic fracturing, each nation’s regulatory approach creates a unique climate for exploring and developing shale gas plays. But what are those evolving climates and how will they affect business development and public and environmental health?
Our webinar provided a discussion of the environmental issues influencing hydraulic fracturing regulation and how those regulations promote or limit the development of shale gas in Europe, Canada, and Australia. The conversation focused on current regulatory frameworks and those under consideration. The panel also took a look forward to talk about the forthcoming European Commission Framework, which is intended to manage risk, address regulatory shortcomings, and provide clarity and predictability for all involved in and affected by the business of hydraulic fracturing.
Panelists:
Steven L. Leifer, Partner, Baker Botts (moderator)
Thomas Jackson, Special Counsel, Baker Botts
Stuart Kemp, Senior Director, Environmental Law, Halliburton
John Staub, International Analysis and Forecasting Expert, U.S. Energy Information Administration
Andrew Williams, State Regulatory and Legislative Affairs Manager, Environmental Defense Fund
Materials:
- mp3 recording of event
- Thomas Jackson, powerpoint presentation
- Stuart Kemp, powerpoint presentation
- John Staub, powerpoint presentation
- Andrew Williams, powerpoint presentation
- Article, BNA International Environment Reporter (September 11, 2013), European Commission Poised to Address Shale Gas Development as Member States Adopt Range of Approaches, by Steven Leifer, Thomas Jackson, and Christine Wyman
- Measurements of methane emissions at natural gas production sites in the United States, National Academy of Sciences (August 2013)