Can Protesting Stop Fracking? Or Even Make a Dent?

The process of hydraulic fracturing, better known as fracking, is one that has divided opinions on a huge scale. Some hail it as the cure-all to the world’s energy problems, with even US President Barack Obama – whose environmentally-friendly policies were supposed to represent a significant part of his legacy – calling it a “the bridge fuel that can power our economy with less of the carbon pollution that causes climate change” between fossil fuels and clean, renewable energy.

On the other hand, many are fearful of the potential effects of the practice on the countryside and on the environment as a whole. The major concerns are the chemicals pumped into the ground to aid with the process, and the possibility of them escaping into the local water supply, thereby contaminating it.

Such concerns were outlined in the 2010 film Gasland by Josh Fox, the enduring image of which – a water tap expelling fire – fuelled opposition. In reply, leading proponent of fracking Chris Faulkner (or “the Frack Master”) attempted to address these concerns. His arguments can be viewed in full in this article: Is Fracking the Way Forward? An Interview with Chris Faulkner.

Denton Residents Make a Dent

Such are the economic interests involved in the process that oil and gas corporations are throwing the full weight of their substantial financial mass behind fracking in an attempt to quash opposition. But in one small fracking hotspot – which in fact, happens to be the birthplace of fracking and quite possibly the most fracked town in the world – a quite extraordinary tale of David and Goliath has unfolded.

Despite pumping around $700,000 to try and silence those who want a ban on fracking in the town – which equates to almost $6 per resident – a recent vote to outlaw fracking within the city limits was passed by 59%.

Since Denton is the town where the shale gas and oil industry began its incredible boom, the decision of its residents to reject it is unprecedented and unexpected; and those who support it are hoping it can act as a precedent itself for other towns and other opponents of fracking.

Due to the popularity of the practice, there are now over 15 million Americans who live within one mile of a well – a staggering figure. Were fracking to be implemented on a similar scale in the UK, that would amount to almost a quarter of the populace. Now, those who are against the practice are hoping that the defiance of a previous stronghold of fracking can lead to greater rebellion and rejection of it further afield.

Not Over Yet

Of course, the battle, even in Denton, is far from over. Oil and gas companies with interests in the city have applied for an immediate injunction to prevent the ban coming into force and indeed, the chair of the Texas Railroad Commission, Christi Craddick, asserted that: “It’s my job to give permits, not Denton’s. We’re going to continue permitting up there because that’s my job.”

A lengthy court battle to determine Denton’s fate seems to be on the cards. However, the people of Denton’s defiance does show that protesters can make a dent in the practice ... whether or not it will endure, remains to be seen.