Unfracked: why shale gas should stay in the ground & Gasland Part II film screening

Full details and video of the event can be found here: http://www.greenmediabox.eu/archive/2013/09/05/unfracked/

about

There are several myths circulating about the extraction of shale gas, coal bed methane and other unconventional fossils, through different methods, notably hydraulic fracturing. These include: – that the extraction of such fuels will bring prosperity to Europe – that we can replicate the economic boom of the US, without repeating their environmental mistakes – that shale gas and other UFFs are necessary transition fuels – that they are good for the climate – that we do not need any extra legislation in Europe to regulate these technologies – that the risks to public health are minimal.

These are just some of the many myths which will be discussed and debunked during the Greens/EFA Group’s morning conference on unconventional fossil fuel extraction, alongside in-depth discussion of the legislative framework, and examples of “fracking-free” campaigns in Europe and the US. Speakers include researchers, academics, campaigners, economists, activists, NGOs, engineers and other stakeholders in this debate. There will be plenty of opportunity for questions and debate from the floor.

CONFERENCE PROGRAMME
9:15-11:00
  Part 1: Fracking-free zones and the legislative framework  
Welcome and introduction by José Bové MEP

Presentation and Q&A of case study of fracking-free zones in Netherlands
Geert Ritsema, Campaign coordinator Friends of the Earth, Netherlands

Presentation from US Frack Action campaign
John Armstrong

Presentations from the floor

Presentation on European legislative framework
Helène Bras, lawyer, France

Presentation of materials “Frack-tivists guide to EU legislation” 
by MEP

Questions & Answers / open debate

11:00-12:45  
Part 2: Top 5 myths about shale gas explained

Introduction and moderation by Carl Schlyter MEP

Shale gas extraction is good for the climate
Gabrielle Petron, University of Colorado

Q&A

The existing legislative framework is adequate 
Mike Hill, oil & gas engineer, UK

Q&A

Shale gas is good for the economy
Thomas Porcher, economist, France

Q&A

Shale gas poses minimal risk to public health
 – Sandra Steingraber (via skype)

Q&A

Contribution from DG Environment European Commission

Further questions/open debate

Presentation of Greens/EFA materials and conclusions 
by Sandrine Bélier MEP

Our good friend and leading UK fractivist, Vanessa Vine, with GASLANDS film maker Josh Fox at the event.