Recent calls for less European dependence on natural gas from Russia are adding to pressure on countries like France to open up its massive shale gas deposits and allow fracking. This controversial technique allows access to shale gas through deep bore drilling and the use of chemically treated water. In the United States, the possibility of air and water pollution has not stopped vast drilling operations from flourishing in several states, as our reporters found out.

Programme prepared by Elise Duffau and Patrick Lovett

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