Shale gas is natural gas that is found trapped underground within shale formations. It has become an increasingly important source of natural gas in the United States since the start of this century, and interest in tapping into the resources is now spreading to other parts of the globe, where there is potential abundance of the natural gas. As is the case in Ukraine.
EastBook: Shale gas in Ukraine: celebrate or demonstrate?
U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine John Tefft has spoken on Friday in defence of the extraction of shale gas in Ukraine, saying that the process should not pose any safety threat, or inordinate harm to the environment if proper extraction methods are observed, saying: “I’ve always been a supporter of environmental protection. And I am convinced if shale gas is extracted in an appropriate manner, this can be done without harming the environment.” The statement comes in response to opponents of the proposed plan to drill for shale gas, who say that its production is detrimental to the environment and poses safety risks to individuals.