University of Twente Student Theses

The Problem of Hydraulic Fracturing in Europe: Two different perspectives, for and against, a binding legislation by the European Union, presented in 2011-2014

Hoelscher, Linda (2014) The Problem of Hydraulic Fracturing in Europe: Two different perspectives, for and against, a binding legislation by the European Union, presented in 2011-2014.

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Abstract:	The technology of hydraulic fracturing, or short fracking, for the extraction of unconventional gas has turned into a very controversial issue in the European Union in recent years. In this thesis the question is examined of how hydraulic fracturing should be regulated at the EU level, the options being either a binding, as is argued for by Germany, or a soft law, voluntary regulation, as is argued for by the United Kingdom. A special focus is laid on the issue of environmental concerns and the needs of Member States for energy security. Portfolio theory, which states that the diversification of an energy portfolio increases security of supply, is applied to this topic, and the two cases, for and against a binding legislation by the EU, that were presented in 2011 to 2014 are compared with regard to their main arguments and their according validity. The main results indicate that unconventional gas extraction by use of fracking would have a much smaller impact on energy security and gas prices in the EU that it does in the US. At the same time, significant risks for the environment and human health call for a strict regulation to minimize negative impacts. Recommendation 2014/70/EU, which was passed by the European Union in early 2014, is only a non-binding piece of legislation and does not obligate Member States to implement certain best available practices when permitting hydraulic fracturing. The conclusion is therefore that the EU should adopt a binding legislation, obligating Member States to adhere to strict safety standards, but which at the same time does not preclude fracking entirely but ensures that it can be used in a safe, strictly monitored manner.
Item Type:	Essay (Bachelor)
Faculty:	BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences
Subject:	88 social and public administration
Programme:	Management Society and Technology BSc (56654)
Link to this item:	https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/65628
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