Quebec Intrduces Interim Rules...The Quebec government proposed interim regulations governing theshale-gas industry while the province examines the environmental impactof shale-gas exploration.
The proposed rules will require companies to obtain provincialauthorization for all shale-gas exploration and exploitation activities.But first, they will be required to inform and consult with the publicon their activities and to pay the costs of that process.
Shale-gas companies will also be required to provide the QuebecMinistry of Sustainable Development, Environment and Parks with detailedtechnical information, including drilling and completion methods,information about water management-plans and information about impactson sensitive areas.
Shale-gas deposits are pockets of natural gas trapped in pores ofsedimentary rock called shale. To force the gas out, drillers use aprocess known as hydraulic fracturing - or fracking - in which water,sand and chemicals are injected into the ground. Some of the mixture ispumped back out and discarded, while some is used in other fracturingjobs, or treated before it is reintroduced to water sources.
Earlier this year, Quebec announced plans to review the burgeoningindustry and its impact on the environment in response to publicconcerns.
In a news release Friday, Questerre Energy Corp. (QEC.T), which isexploring for shale gas in Quebec, said: "In principle we are fullysupportive of government's efforts to learn how shale gas can bedeveloped sustainably for the benefit of all stakeholders in Quebec."
https://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20110506-708006.html
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