A new study has found coal seam gas fields on the Darling Downs in southern Queensland are leaking at a greater rate than first thought.
The ABC reports tests by scientists from Southern Cross University for naturally-occurring radon gas near wells near Tara on the Darling Downs, found atmospheric levels are three times higher than the surrounding area.
Associate Professor Isaac Santos said the findings indicate emissions are concentrated around CSG wells.
"There is a significant relationship between the radon concentrations and the number of nearby coal seam gas wells and that brings us to a chicken or egg question, who came first?" he said.
"We have high radon near the wells because of the wells or we have lots of wells in a location that's gassy naturally."
However, the Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association wants more information about the research.
Spokesman Rick WIlkinson said the research needs to be reviewed by other scientists.
The ABC reports the study was the first of its kind in Australia.
