This report gives an overview of a workshop held 4-5 March in The Hague that introduced a framework for participatory monitoring and accompanying guidance on how the framework could be used in real practice.
This overview report of ethical and social issues associated with carbon dioxide (CO2) capture and storage (CCS) and with Shale Gas R&D is divided into two chapters that summarise the ethical and social issues raised in CCS and shale gas respectively, with comparison drawn out in the final chapter. This report improves the understanding of shale gas and CCS perceptions of stakeholders and local residents, and is useful when considering how to communicate complex scientific and technical material with the public.
An increase in shale gas extraction in North America and the possibility of similar operations in Europe have raised public concern over potential environmental impacts. At the same time, carbon capture and storage (CCS) has been identified as a necessary part of climate action worldwide. Both operations utilise geological formations deep below ground.
This work package supports the development of commercial CCS and responsible exploitation of Europe’s shale gas reserves by testing and recommending strategies for engaging with stakeholders. This includes the dissemination of information to non-technical audiences, such as policymakers and citizens. It will also explore opportunities for participative monitoring of projects as an aspect of public engagement.
Our approach will draw together best-practice recommendations from the other work packages and share these with targeted groups of stakeholders, including project developers, policy makers, legislators and regulators, industry and early career researchers.