CeREES News

European Shale Gas: Risks, Regulation and Research Challenges

(15 December 2011)

Conference to be held at Durham University, 27-29th March 2012, organised by IGEM and the N8 group.
Conference Website

Shale gas has been a game-changer in the USA, but has yet to be exploited commercially in Europe. Recent discoveries of 'vast reserves' in the UK, however, coupled with claims of aquifer pollution and induced earthquakes, have made shale gas big news, and with big news come big challenges. From the geological distribution and exploration, to the technical issues of exploitation and regulation, these challenges require an integrated approach that unites all interested parties. Organized by IGEM and the N8 Group, this international, interdisciplinary meeting will bring together policy makers, scientists, engineers and stakeholders. It has the twin aims of informing new codes of practice for UK shale gas exploitation, and of building UK and European research capacity in shale gas and other unconventionals. With invited presentations from recognized experts in all areas of the field, coupled with workshops and plenary discussions, it represents a unique opportunity to inform the future directions of shale gas exploitation, regulation and research in the UK, Europe, and beyond.