ENVIRONMENTAL groups have called on the Scottish Government to ban fracking and unconventional oil and gas extraction because of risks to our climate, environment and public health.

Groups including Friends of the Earth Scotland, RSPB Scotland, Scottish Wildlife Trust and WWF Scotland have responded to the Scottish Government’s consultation, claiming it would be irresponsible to open up a new source of fossil fuels while it is committed to continued exploitation of North Sea oil and gas reserves.

Mary Church, from Scottish Environment LINK, said: “While evidence of the harmful impacts of UOG extraction grows, a precautionary approach requires that we say no to this industry.

“We urge the Scottish Government to listen to the tens of thousands of people across the country who have made their voices heard... and act to protect our environment.”