Early Stage Engagement, Winning Social Acceptance for Shale Gas

Unconventional Gas has the potential to bring massive benefits to society. Outside the US, realizing this potential is beset by geotechnical, and more prominently, social challenges. The industry has met a fierce anti Shale Gas lobby in every country it operates. This lobby is led by activists and NGO’s that address genuine concerns that people have about the risks involved in Shale Gas production. These are risks that the industry has a poor track record in explaining and addressing. Once these risks have been defined, agreed and mitigated; then the industry can take a more proactive strategy of public engagement at the national level, in parallel with local consultation close to operating sites.