Delegates at the 20th World Petroleum Congress believe that unconventional gas is a long-term solution to the world’s energy demands, despite concerns over the profitability and environmental impact of its production, according to research from GL Noble Denton.

World Petroleum Congress, Doha, – 8 December, 2011: Oil and gas industry professionals see unconventional gas as a long term solution to the world’s energy demands, according to a poll conducted yesterday at the 20th World Petroleum Congress in Doha. 57% of participants said that the production of unconventional gas, which includes shale gas and coal bed methane, would help fuel the projected long term growth in global energy consumption, while 43% thought it would not.

The Industry Snapshot Poll was conducted by global independent technical advisor GL Noble Denton during the third day of the World Petroleum Congress, which is expected to have attracted more than 12,000 industry professionals from across the world. The poll was also completed online by senior professionals from across the industry.

Pekka Paasivaara, Member of the GL Executive Board, said: “The energy industry’s opinion on the future role of unconventional gas has been volatile this year, as the sector continues to debate the profitability and environmental impacts associated with its production. The result of this poll clearly shows that these challenges haven’t affected optimism in the belief that unconventional gas will sustain world demand in the years to come.”

GL Noble Denton has conducted three Industry Snapshot Polls this week, one for each full day of World Petroleum Congress. Delegates were also asked to have their say on whether the sector is doing enough to encourage future generations to chose a career in oil and gas, and whether they believe the industry has the capability to support energy demand in 10 years time.

Tags: World Petroleum Congress