Social impacts of earthquakes caused by gas extraction in the Province of Groningen, The Netherlands

Gas extraction from the Groningen gasfield in the northern Netherlands has led to localized earthquakes which are projected to become more severe. The social impacts experienced by local residents include: damage to property; declining house prices; concerns about the chance of dykes breaking; feelings of anxiety and insecurity; health issues; and anger. These social and emotional impacts are exacerbated by the increasing distrust Groningen people have towards the national government and the gas company, NAM, a partnership between Shell and ExxonMobil. The earthquakes have reopened discussions... Mehr ...