countries using or considering use of hydraulic fracturing have implemented different regulations, including developing federal and regional legislation, and local zoning limitations. in 2011, after public pressure france became the first nation to ban hydraulic fracturing, based on the precautionary principle as well as the principle of preventive and corrective action of environmental hazards. the ban was upheld by an october 2013 ruling of the constitutional council. some other countries such as scotland have placed a temporary moratorium on the practice due to public health concerns and strong public opposition. countries like england and south africa have lifted their bans, choosing to focus on regulation instead of outright prohibition. germany has announced draft regulations that would allow using hydraulic fracturing for the exploitation of shale gas deposits with the exception of wetland areas. in china, regulation on shale gas still faces hurdles, as it has complex interrelations with other regulatory regimes, especially trade. many states in australia have either permanently or temporarily banned fracturing for hydrocarbons. in 2019, hydraulic fracturing was banned in uk.