Fracking's Ecological Impact | Russell T. Rudy Energy LLC
“Rigzone” reports that in spite of the indisputable benefits of the development of shale energy resources, a number of critics decry the associated environmental downsides. Even detractors grudgingly admit that shale development projects in 26 states have reversed the decline in domestic energy production, made the U. S. a significant oil producer, and a potential exporter of Liquefied Natural Gas.
This oil and gas renaissance has been made possible by advances in horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing (fracing) technology. It is the latter that has drawn the ire of environmental activists. To counter charges of environmental irresponsibility, the Houston based Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA) has mounted a campaign to debunk environmental myths. The CEA represents members from academic, organized labor, energy producer, conservation, agricultural and manufacturing groups.
The article includes interviews with CEA representatives from across the U. S. whose key comments are summarized below:
Air Quality
As a result of the increased reliance on natural gas for electric power generation, the U. S. is the only industrialized nation actually close to meeting Kyoto Protocol standards.
Ground Water Pollution
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that it has been unable to document any cases of groundwater contamination as a result of fracing. This, in spite of an extensive investigation into the Dimrock, PA case.
Toxicity of Produced Water
Water produced as a result of fracing operations is brine, which is merely very salty water. Brine which is injected and subsequently produced is in compliance with EPA standards. Further, 98% of frac fluids are currently being recycled.
Composition of Frac Fluids
Critics claim that the composition of fracing fluids are a tightly held secret. This is untrue as both federal and state regulators require disclosure. In fact, many operators voluntarily post the composition of their frac fluids on www.frackfocus.org .
Contamination of Aquifers
While this myth is widely publicized, the National Energy Technology Laboratory studied wells in Greene County, PA and found no evidence of chemical contamination of local drinking water.
Diversion of Water Supply in Arid Regions
Energy development in general, and fracing in particular, do use water, but the amount is relatively quite small. In Colorado for example, 85% of the state’s water resources are used for agriculture, and only .08% for energy development. In some states, operators have gone to “closed loop” systems in which nearly 100% of water used in fracing operations is recycled. In Texas, operators are using water from brine aquifers, which are too salty for other uses, for fracing. The industry’s goal is to become completely independent of potable water for use as a fracing fluid.
The article goes into more detail and cites direct quotes from individuals interviewed around the country. To read it in its entirety, please go to www.rigzone.com/news/oil_gas/a/132899/CEA .
