The Environment Agency published research carried out by AEA into the control of fugitive methane emission from unconventional gas operations on 10 August 2012. The study report can be obtained from: http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/business/topics/134511.aspx

The study is an important component of the Environment Agency's work to prepare for regulation of unconventional oil and gas extraction - and in particular, future developments in shale gas exploration and production using hydraulic fracturing or "fracking." The Agency confirmed that, "we will be reviewing this report in detail as we develop our regulatory approach to ensure that any unconventional gas site operates in ways that protect people and the environment."

Monitoring and control of fugitive methane from unconventional gas operations

The study provides the Environment Agency with information on sources of fugitive methane emissions from shale gas extraction. The latest information on methods of estimating fugitive methane emission inventories was presented, and appropriate control techniques were set out. This information is designed to assist the Agency and the industry in developing appropriate regulatory procedures and guidance for this industry which is new to the UK.

Mark Broomfield, AEA's project manager said, "We are pleased to have been able to work with the Agency to carry out research in this challenging area for the emerging unconventional gas industry. We were able to combine AEA's expertise in conventional and unconventional gas processes with the expertise of our North American business Eastern Research Group in monitoring and regulation of the shale gas industry in the US. We look forward to continuing to work with regulators and other stakeholders in the UK and throughout Europe to ensure that the regulatory challenges of unconventional gas are met."

Shale Gas Environmental Summit

AEA is supporting the next session of the Shale Gas Environmental Summit in London on 29-30 October 2012. Mark Broomfield will present AEA's research into methane control, environmental risks and regulatory challenges which will result from shale gas exploration and extraction in Europe. He will be joined by Betsy Bicknell from Eastern Research Group (ERG). ERG is a leading consultant to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, and Betsy, a senior environmental engineer, will present the latest developments in the re-use of produced water in the Marcellus Shale.

For more information and to register, visit SMi Group's website here.

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