Fracking with George Monbiot

Matthew Taylor brings together James Woudhuysen and George Monbiot for a head-to-head discussion on hydraulic fracturing (fracking) for the the BBC Radio 4 programme ‘Agree to differ‘.

During this debate Matthew Taylor explores points of disagreement, and agreement, around the controversial issue of hydraulic fracturing (or the more disparaging term “fracking”, as some would have it). Initially each set out a general position on the topic, then Woudhuysen and Monbiot are asked to clarify three points of difference:

• is this technology needed
• is it safe, and
• who will be the winners and losers should this technology become widely adopted

Over the course of the discussion, Woudhuysen and Monbiot did land on some points of agreement around the over-exaggerated risks, the aspiration to move away from use of coal, due to greenhouse gas emissions and that the balance for development needed to lean toward the greater good rather than on solely local concerns.

The points of disagreement were however more prominent and, despite Taylor’s best efforts to find common ground, strong points of difference were maintained – somewhat inevitably, given the very different underlying assumptions held by each. Disagreements on fracking quickly surfaced around the proper placing of transitionary technologies as we move away from coal. Other disagreements centred around the role of energy conservation, the types of energy that should be used, the mix of energy (e.g. nuclear, renewables, coal and fracking) and the quantity of energy demanded by the needs of current and emerging economies, populations, regulations, and non-urban areas of development.

Fundamentally, the underlying differences exposed in the debate related to the place of science, the appetite to take risks; differing views around conservation and a timidity toward the future set against bold innovation; and, planning for growth to meet demand against complacent inertia.

Listen to the broadcast to hear who argued what – and decide which way forward you side with.