Victory for environmental campaigners as Scottish Government rejects fracking

The Scottish Government has set out a finalised policy of NO SUPPORT for unconventional oil and gas (UOG) development – fracking – in Scotland.

Energy Minister Paul Wheelhouse confirmed the position following a comprehensive period of evidence-gathering and consultation, including environmental and business assessments. He also set out the factors which led to this decision, including the incompatibility of UOG development with climate change policy.

This means the Scottish Government will not issue licences for new UOG development, and that Scotland’s planning framework will not support development using unconventional oil and gas extraction techniques, including coal bed methane and hydraulic fracturing, commonly known as ‘fracking’.

Mr Wheelhouse said: “The Scottish Government’s final policy position is that we do not support the development of unconventional oil and gas – often known as ‘fracking’ – in Scotland.

“That decision followed consideration of many factors including the significant negative effects that UOG development could have on our natural environment and the health and wellbeing of communities, while bearing in mind the overwhelming feedback from the public that this should not be permitted in Scotland.

“After a comprehensive evidence-gathering exercise, we have concluded that the development of onshore unconventional oil and gas is incompatible with our policies on climate change, energy transition and the decarbonisation of our economy.

“Fracking can only happen if licences are issued and we do not intend to issue any licences which would permit that.”

“I want to thank all those who contributed to our policy process and to recognise the considered submissions made by so many people.”

SNP MSP Gordon Macdonald said: “Scotland has been at the forefront of global action to combat climate change – recently announcing some of the most ambitious statutory targets in the world. 

“I’m delighted that the Scottish Government are putting the interests of our communities in Edinburgh first and maintaining Scotland’s reputation as a global leader on tackling climate change by announcing no support for ‘fracking.

“It’s a move which shows we’re serious about protecting communities in Edinburgh and across Scotland, meeting our climate change targets and creating a better, greener country for the next generation.

“Meanwhile in England, the Tories are intent on fracking underneath people’s homes, in the face of considerable public opposition, without any concern for the impact on people’s health, the environment or their communities.

“The transformation of the energy system in Scotland has the potential to bring significant economic and social opportunities to individuals, businesses and communities in Edinburgh.”