Investigating groundwater governance arrangements for unconventional gas exploration and production in main Karoo Basin, South Africa
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Date
2016
Authors
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Publisher
University of the Western Cape
Abstract
South Africa relies on coal and imported crude oil for most of its energy. The
possible production of shale gas in the main Karoo Basin of South Africa provides
a potential opportunity to diversify the primary energy mix. However, shale gas
exploration and production is associated with environmental impacts that include
potential groundwater contamination. Protecting groundwater resources involves an effective governance regime in
place to regulate such risks on groundwater resources. This study made use of a
qualitative approach to investigate groundwater governance arrangements in
relation to the proposed shale gas development. Further, the study developed and
used an analytical framework to assess groundwater governance provisions and
capacity at local level for shale gas development.
Description
Magister Scientiae - MSc (Environ & Water Science)