csg, page-8

Thanks Boz
I wonder how DERM and the Qld Gov will play this one out. If they let this go ahead then it's good ammunition for CXY or "DOES SIZE REALLY MATTER"


BHP Billiton is facing a series of class action law suits in the United States over the environmental effects of a controversial gas mining technique that is about to become a massive industry in Australia.

Landowners in the state of Arkansas allege BHP's recently acquired $US4.75 billion Fayetteville shale gas business is causing earthquakes, poisoning their water sources and polluting the soil and air.

The pending litigation comes amid growing environmental concerns surrounding the emerging $50 billion Queensland and New South Wales coal seam gas industry.

Advertisement: Story continues below A gas and water blowout this week in a well operated by Shell and PetroChina near Dalby, Queensland, has prompted calls for tighter control and regulation of the industry.

Shale gas and coal seam gas operations use hydraulic fracturing to liberate the gas. It involves injecting high-pressure water, sand and chemicals, and results in large volumes of salty water coming to the surface.

In one class action, Arkansas landowners allege that BHP and three US gas producers allowed noxious emissions to contaminate water supplies, air and soil.

Another group alleges that reinjecting salt water underground has caused earthquakes.

The landowners are seeking millions of dollars in damages, and improved environmental monitoring.

BHP said yesterday its goal was to develop the facility ''in line with our values of ensuring that we fully protect people, the environment and communities where we operate''.



Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/business/bhp-sued-by-us-landowners-20110524-1f2ke.html#ixzz1NJvgjtvL