Environmental Impacts from the Development of Unconventional Oil and Gas Reserves

The development of unconventional oil and gas shales using hydraulic fracturing and directional drilling is a focal point of energy and climate change discussions. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the extraction from unconventional reservoirs, including global reserves, development status, regulatory framework, water management, contamination, air quality, earthquakes, radioactivity, isotope geochemistry, microbiology, and climate change. Case studies present baseline studies, water monitoring efforts, and habitat destruction.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 18 August 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The development of unconventional oil and gas shales through hydraulic fracturing and directional drilling has emerged as a central topic in energy and climate change discussions. While this technology has unlocked vast reserves of oil and gas, concerns have arisen regarding the environmental impacts, particularly due to the substantial consumption of water, emissions, and the required infrastructure. To address these concerns, an international consortium of experts has compiled this comprehensive book, providing a detailed exploration of the extraction processes from unconventional reservoirs.

The book begins by providing a comprehensive overview of global unconventional oil and gas reserves, highlighting their current status and the regulatory frameworks governing their development. It delves into the critical aspects of water management and contamination, examining the challenges and strategies employed to mitigate environmental impacts. Chapters also address air quality, earthquakes, radioactivity, isotope geochemistry, microbiology, and the potential climate change implications associated with unconventional oil and gas extraction.

To support the theoretical discussions, case studies are presented, showcasing baseline studies, water monitoring efforts, and the devastating consequences of habitat destruction. These case studies provide valuable insights into the real-world challenges and opportunities associated with unconventional oil and gas extraction.

Designed with accessibility in mind, this book appeals to a wide audience, including academics, industry professionals, and policy makers interested in environmental pollution and petroleum exploration. It serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the technological advancements, environmental concerns, and policy considerations surrounding unconventional oil and gas development.

ISBN-13: 9781108489195