Starting next month, the Danish Nature Agency will begin its investigation into the environmental consequences of fracking, the extraction of shale gas.
The independent study will seek to inform the Danish public, many of whom are in opposition to Total's shale gas project in northern Jutland, about the possible dangers.
READ MORE: Danes in favour of shale gas
International knowledge with local conditions
"We want to create a Danish information base, so all the different players can respond to the environmental impacts of shale gas production as well as possible," Sanne Kjaer, the head of the Nature Agency, said in a statement.
The investigation will take into account both international knowledge about fracking as well as specific Danish geological conditions.
The Nature Agency, which is part of the Environment Ministry, will assess the possible impact on groundwater, emissions, risks during transportation, earthquake risks and handling of hazardous substances.
READ MORE: Government eyeing new oil and gas strategy
Factfile: What is shale gas?
Shale gas is natural gas found in compact, low-permeability rocks deep beneath the surface.
Its reserves are estimated to represent between 120 and 150 years’ worth of natural gas supply at the current rate of consumption.
Its production is, however, water and land-intensive.
