Editorial - 25-7

Canadian technology may be able to de-risk one of the most promising future sources of energy that currently poses a grave environmental threat under current extraction practices. Hydraulic fracturing or hydrofracking now uses what many critics have described as a toxic stew of chemicals mixed with water to release natural gas trapped in rock formations. Much of that water can end up in water tables that pollute drinking water for humans and animals alike.

The dangers posed by hydrofracking were explored in Gasland, a 2010 film nominated for a best documentary Oscar. The practice is currently subject to a moratorium in both New York state and Quebec. Now an Alberta-based company — GasFrac Energy Services Inc — is deploying a new system using liquefied propane gas which it claims produces higher yields and leaves no toxic substances behind (see lead story).

If GasFrac's technology maintains its reputation as environmentally neutral, it could remove a major obstacle to more widespread exploitation of both natural gas and oil reserves.

Even better, GasFrac wants to strengthen its R&D in Canada, even though the largest potential market is in the US. The company — which combines Canadian and US technologies — says Canada's R&D tax credits are a powerful incentive when compared to US inducements, making this a great homegrown success story. We need more examples of creative, environmentally-friendly companies working to reverse Canada's unenviable reputation as an impediment to sustainable energy practices.