Fracking hell: the big picture

A unique collaboration between the Ecologist Film Unit and Link TV lifts the lid on fracking and the shale gas boom sweeping into Europe and beyond…

Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, is a process that injects water, sand, and chemicals into underground rock (usually shale) at high pressure to extract natural gas. But it is highly controversial. Supporters say it provides the US with a cheap source of fuel and helps provide jobs and prosperity, while opponents say it pollutes air and water.

Now, as fracking goes global, communities in South Africa, Poland and beyond have to decide between environmental concerns and big financial incentives from the energy companies.

The big picture

The Ecologist has partnered with Link TV’s Earth Focus programme to contribute to the channel’s Fracking hell: the big picture special:

• Fracking hell? Poland’s dash for gas Fracking multinationals covet the sizable shale deposits lying deep in Poland’s underbelly. Advocates say this will bring prosperity, but opponents cite the US experience — where fracking is marred by environmental and social concerns — fearing the end of Poland’s rural communities. Watch it

• Fracking hell? The untold story A look at the risks of natural gas development in the Marcellus Shale: from toxic chemicals in drinking water to unregulated interstate dumping of potentially radioactive waste, are the health consequences worth the economic gains? Watch it