Early problems spark fracking concerns

A gas leak on the surface of a fracking well south of Dongara has reignited concerns about the environmental safety of the emerging industry.

The leak, at AWE’s Corybas wellhead, has sparked concern about the potential for groundwater contamination and shows that the regulatory framework for fracking is inadequate, says WA Greens Spokesperson for Water Alison Xamon.

“This is exactly why communities have been calling for a moratorium on this industry, so that we can get it right before drilling starts causing problems such as leaks,” Ms Xamon said.

“The current regulatory framework has not kept up with this industry, and independent environmental assessment of the wells is yet to occur in this state.

“And the Department of Mines and Petroleum have stated that they only intend to monitor unconventional gas wells for two years after they have been shut down-yet clearly there needs to be ongoing monitoring of the wells integrity in order to address potential environmental impacts.

“There have only been six fracks for unconventional gas in this state to date, with three more planned for July, and already problems are developing.

“This doesn’t augur well for the future.”