Durham-led fracking consortium launched

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. You can change your cookie settings at any time. Otherwise, we'll assume you're OK to continue. Durham-led fracking consortium launched ReFINE (Researching Fracking in Europe), an independent research consortium focusing on the issue of shale gas and oil exploitation using fracking methods led by Durham University, was officially launched on Thursday November 7  ReFINE is led by Professor Richard Davies, Dean of Knowledge Exchange and Impact & Director of Durham Energy Institute and works in conjunction with Newcastle, Heriot-Watt and Keele universities. It seeks to provide an in-depth scientific analysis of the potential environmental risks associated with fracking and shale exploitation. ReFINE is neutral on whether shale gas and oil exploitation should take place. The consortium will carry out scientific research over a 24 month period focusing on seven specific areas including induced seismicity (man-made earthquakes), estimation of fugitive emissions, the potential risks of aquifer contamination, increased traffic levels due to drilling and fracking, potential health issues, water sourcing for fracking and waste water clean up, drilling, completion, subsidence and long-term impact of fracking fluids in the subsurface.