"Drilling for natural gas in itself doesn't pose a threat to air and water quality, if it‘s done properly." , University of Texas
Developing energy from shale is similar to the development of any natural resource, it doesn't occur in a vacuum it occurs in the community. In fact, advances in drilling technology means that fracking natural gas is now occurring in more populated areas that have not experienced oil and gas development in the past. For those communities there are several important things to remember:
Hydraulic fracturing does not introduce new or unique environmental risks to exploration and production operations, but concerns have been raised due to the potential scale of operations where this technology is applied. Many of these concerns are genuine and the oil and natural gas industry recognizes that there needs to be a bigger conversation about the development process and the steps being taken to ensure safe operations. Some of the loudest concerns, however, that have been expressed about fracking are not authentic and have been manufactured by those opposed to all oil and natural gas development and for whom no possible safeguards exist which would make it permissible.
It is important to note that safe and responsible development doesn't just happen, it is the result of dedicated efforts by the oil and natural gas industry, working with regulators and local communities, to alleviate potential nuisances, reduce environmental impacts, and avoid interference with existing commercial activity.
"The environmental impacts of shale development are challenging but manageable."
Past performance has shown that the oil and natural gas industry is committed to responsibly managing the impacts of shale development. And continual improvement shows agreement with the idea that past performance isn't enough; there is a need to be vigilant and proactive regarding issues surrounding: