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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
National
Lisa Cox

Methane bubbles in groundwater cast doubts over Beetaloo basin fracking approval, scientists say

Empire Energy's Carpentaria-1 exploration well
Empire Energy's Carpentaria-1 exploration well in the Betaloo basin. Scientists have warned that the NT government’s approval of fracking in the area is not based on a full understanding of groundwater structure. Photograph: Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources

Experts have cast doubt on groundwater studies that underpin the Northern Territory government’s decision to permit fracking in the Beetaloo basin, after methane bubbles were observed at hot springs in an area targeted for gas production.

In a new report, commissioned by the Environment Centre NT (ECNT), the scientists warn of “critical knowledge gaps” in baseline groundwater assessments conducted by the government in response to the Pepper inquiry into fracking.

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