South Africa Ends Fracking Ban

Karoo area has enough gas to supply the country for 400 years

South Africa has lifted a ban on the extraction of shale gas using the controversial fracking technique.

There are said to be huge deposits of shale gas in the semi-desert Karoo area, known for its natural beauty.

Campaigners warn that fracking—pumping water and chemicals into rock at high pressure—is dangerous for the environment.

One study found that Karoo could hold enough gas to supply South Africa for 400 years.

The area is extremely poor and fracking supporters say it would bring new jobs to the region.