Greenpeace Demands Fracking Ban in Hungary, Citing Environmental and Health Dangers
Greenpeace Hungary is urging the Hungarian government to impose a complete ban on hydraulic fracturing (fracking), citing severe environmental and health risks. Despite growing opposition in Europe, Hungary continues to allow fracking for natural gas extraction. The environmental group warns that fracking poses significant dangers, including water contamination, air pollution, and the release of harmful chemicals that threaten both ecosystems and public health.
The Environmental and Health Risks of Fracking
Fracking involves injecting a high-pressure mixture of water, sand, and chemicals into underground rock formations to release natural gas. According to Greenpeace experts, including regional chemicals specialist Gergely Simon, this process introduces toxic substances like acids, biocides, and carcinogenic chemicals such as benzene into the environment. These pollutants can seep into groundwater and be released into the air, leading to long-term environmental damage and health concerns for nearby communities.
While many European countries—including Germany, France, the Netherlands, and Bulgaria—have banned fracking, Hungary continues to allow its use, particularly in the Nyékpuszta gas field, where the Corvinus project employs this controversial method.
Greenpeace’s Monitoring Reveals Illegal Pollution in Nyékpuszta
Greenpeace has been actively monitoring fracking sites in Nyékpuszta, using thermal imaging and air quality measurement tools to detect emissions. Their findings indicate that benzene levels in the area have exceeded legal limits, with recorded concentrations nearly twice the one-day exposure threshold over a 13-day period.
The gas operator, MVM, has disputed these claims, but Greenpeace insists its data is accurate and highlights the ongoing risks posed by fracking. The organization has submitted its findings to Hungarian authorities, urging immediate intervention to prevent further environmental harm.
Advocating for Renewable Energy Instead of Fossil Fuels
Greenpeace Hungary is also calling for a stronger commitment to renewable energy, arguing that Hungary should invest in sustainable alternatives such as wind and solar power rather than continuing to rely on fracking and other fossil fuel extraction methods. Transitioning to clean energy, Greenpeace argues, will help Hungary reduce its environmental footprint while supporting the global effort to combat climate change.
Fracking in Hungary: A Growing Controversy in Europe
Hungary’s continued use of fracking contrasts with the broader European trend of tightening restrictions on fossil fuel extraction. As more EU nations move toward greener energy policies, Greenpeace hopes that Hungary will follow suit and adopt stricter regulations against fracking. By banning the practice, Hungary would align itself with its European neighbors and prioritize environmental protection and public health.
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