Mexico to proceed 'step by step' on fracking, prioritizing saltwater analysis and community consultations

President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that Mexico's federal government will proceed step-by-step with unconventional natural gas projects, adhering to recommendations from a committee of specialists. The immediate focus will be on evaluating the feasibility of using saltwater found in the subsoil before initiating any fracking projects.

"So, we are going step by step, the experts have already told us: 'Do all of this and if you want to use unconventional gas, continue consulting the experts, but first of all, see if there is feasibility of using saltwater in the subsoil.' That is the recommendation, we are going to do that, we are going to do an experimental well to see if there is saltwater in the deep subsoil," Sheinbaum explained during a press conference.

The government is still assessing key factors such as the number of people potentially affected, the costs involved, and the number of wells required to ensure energy sovereignty. A crucial first step is determining the availability of non-potable water that is not currently, or in the future, needed for human consumption. Specialists will periodically provide updates on these assessments.

Furthermore, the committee will advise on available water resources, recommended techniques, alternative strategies for non-viable areas, budget requirements, and the specific needs of each involved community. Sheinbaum emphasized the importance of consulting nearby populations, informing them about potential benefits and environmental impacts, and addressing their concerns before proceeding.

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Oye, mira, vamos a hacer esto. ¿Estás de acuerdo o no estás de acuerdo? ‘No, no estoy de acuerdo’. O ‘sí estoy de acuerdo, pero tienes que informarme cada semana qué es lo que pasa o cada mes’. ‘Sí, estoy de acuerdo, pero ¿sabes qué? Tenemos muchas necesidades en la comunidad’.