Gas companies, environmentalists agree on tough voluntary standards for Northeast fracking

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FILE - In this Oct. 14, 2011 file photo, a drilling rig is set up near a barn in Springville, Pa., to tap gas from the giant Marcellus Shale gas field. In an unlikely partnership between longtime adversaries, some of the nation\'s biggest energy companies and environmental groups announced Wednesday, March 20, 2013 that they have agreed on a voluntary set of standards for gas and oil fracking in the Northeast. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Some of the nation’s biggest energy companies and environmental groups have agreed on a voluntary set of standards for gas and oil fracking in the Northeast.

The project represents a rare case of co-operation between the two sides, and if it succeeds, it could have far-reaching effects.

It will work a lot like Underwriters Laboratories, which puts its UL seal of approval on electrical appliances that meet its standards. In this case, drilling and pipeline companies will be encouraged to submit to an independent review of their operations.

If they are found to be taking certain steps to protect the air and water, they will receive the blessing of the brand-new Center for Sustainable Shale Development, based in Pittsburgh.

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