No doubt much of the discussion about shale gas production has been focused on the United States, especially on the positive economic benefits associated with the industry – a story just this weekend, for example, detailed how new college programs and training courses are preparing students for careers in the growing natural gas industry.

But the shale gas story is increasingly global, as are the benefits.

While few countries have as much experience with shale gas as the United States, there’s a vast amount of knowledge and data to share about its potential and the policies necessary to realize the benefits of this cleaner energy resource.

ExxonMobil Senior Vice President Andy Swiger was in London just last week addressing the potential of natural gas – particularly in Europe – at a major oil and gas industry conference.

Andy explained how the evolution of technologies and processes in the United States has made increased shale gas production economic – and he also talked about how other nations can harness their shale gas resources in coming years.

“Transforming the potential of unconventional gas into reality for the world’s energy consumers will not happen automatically. It will require the best of our industry,” Andy said. “We will need to invest with discipline, pursue sustained research and development, and maintain our commitment to operating in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.”

In both the United States and Europe, much of the shale gas debate is centered on hydraulic fracturing, part of the process used to develop the resources. In his speech, Andy shared facts about how the process works, how groundwater supplies are protected, and how technology advances have reduced the surface footprint of shale gas operations.

He also stressed the importance of basing policy decisions on fact, not fear, to ensure these resources are used to the benefit of consumers and governments worldwide.

“Stable regulatory frameworks that provide access and facilitate long-term investment can enable development of unconventional natural gas to its full potential,” Andy said. “Coupled with sound operational practices based upon long-standing industry experience, well-founded regulatory systems can also help assure the public that unconventional gas resources can be developed in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.”

You can read Andy’s full speech at exxonmobil.com, or take a look at the news coverage of his speech.