Impacts of Shale Gas and Shale Oil Extraction on the Environment and on Human Health

Stefan LECHTENBÖHMER (Wuppertal Institute for Climate, Environment; Energy), Matthias ALTMANN (Ludwig-Bölkow-Systemtechnik GmbH), Sofia CAPITO (Ludwig-Bölkow-Systemtechnik GmbH), Zsolt MATRA (Ludwig-Bölkow-Systemtechnik GmbH), Werner WEINDRORF (Ludwig-Bölkow-Systemtechnik GmbH); Werner ZITTEL (Ludwig-Bölkow-Systemtechnik GmbH)

This study discusses the possible impacts of hydraulic fracturing on the environment and on human health. Quantitative data and qualitative impacts are taken from US experience since shale gas extraction in Europe still is in its infancy, while the USA have more than 40 years of experience already having drilled more than 50,000 wells. Greenhouse gas emissions are also assessed based on a critical review of existing literature and own calculations. European legislation is reviewed with respect to hydraulic fracturing activities and recommendations for further work are given. The potential gas resources and future availability of shale gas is discussed in face of the present conventional gas supply and its probable future development.

sustainable development environment energy environmental impact public health water pollution energy supply atmospheric pollutant mining extraction extraction of oil