Unconventional oil and gas: strategic environmental assessment - post adoption statement

6. Finalisation of the Policy Position

6.1.1 The information gathered through the environmental assessment, and through the views and opinions of consultees, has been used to inform the Scottish Government’s finalised policy position on UOG, published on 3 October 2019^[22]. 

6.1.2 Unconventional oil and gas is an issue that has stimulated intense debate, motivated by deeply held and sincere views on all sides. The Scottish Government has undertaken one of the most far-reaching investigations of any government, anywhere, into unconventional oil and gas, and we are aware that the future of unconventional oil and gas in Scotland is relevant to wider energy issues and our world-leading climate change ambitions. The Scottish Government is also aware that the potential activity associated with an unconventional oil and gas industry would likely be concentrated in and around former coalfields and oil shale fields in the Central Belt of Scotland, which are among the most densely populated parts of the country.

6.1.3 It is clear from consultation responses that communities across Scotland, particularly in areas where developments could take place, have yet to be convinced there is a strong enough case of national economic importance, when balanced against the risk and disruption they anticipate on matters such as transport impacts, risks of pollution, and on their general health and wellbeing. Although the Scottish Government is confident that an unconventional oil and gas industry would aim to work to the highest environmental, and health and safety standards, it is also our responsibility as a government to make a decision we believe is the best for the people of this country. We must be confident that the choices we make will not compromise health and safety or damage the environment in which we live.  

6.1.4 The Scottish Government considers the development of an onshore unconventional oil and gas industry in Scotland would make achieving its ambitious energy and climate change commitments even more challenging. Whilst acknowledging the important role of gas in the transition to a low carbon energy future, the addition of an onshore unconventional oil and gas industry would not promote our ability to meet our greenhouse gas emissions targets or objectives in relation to protecting and enhancing the environment. The outcome of our public consultation shows that in those communities most likely to be affected, there are considerable concerns about the potential impacts and disruption that could be caused. It is the Scottish Government’s position that notwithstanding the comprehensive consultation procedure, the research we have commissioned, published and considered has not provided a strong enough basis from which to address those communities’ concerns.