Abstract:
Various biophysical and socio-economic impacts may
be associated with unconventional oil and gas (UOG)
extraction. A vulnerability map may assist governments
during environmental assessments, spatial planning and the
regulation of UOG extraction, as well as decision-making
around UOG extraction in fragile areas. A regional interactive
vulnerability map was developed for UOG extraction in
South Africa. This map covers groundwater, surface water,
vegetation, socio-economics and seismicity as mapping themes,
based on impacts that may emanate from UOG extraction.
The mapping themes were developed using a normative
approach, where expert input during the identification and
classification of vulnerability indicators may increase the
acceptability of the resultant map. This article describes the
development of the interactive vulnerability map for South
Africa, where UOG extraction is not yet allowed and where
regulations are still being developed to manage this activity.
The importance and policy implications of using vulnerability
maps for managing UOG extraction impacts in countries
where UOG extraction is planned are highlighted in this
article.
