Current State, Impacts and Global Policy Landscape of Fracking

Abstract

There have been a lot of concerns and agitations globally over the operations of Fracking (hydraulic fracturing), an innovative drilling technique that mines unconventional oil and gas. This review article analyzes the environmental consequences based on methane emission, groundwater contamination, social impacts and regulatory framework involved in fracking operations. In order to achieve these objectives, we carried out a broad preliminary desk/literature review across the internet to understand the widespread effects of fracking in various countries and individual states. From our findings we deduced that; (1) Fracking has not been globally adapted and very few counties in practice of fracking’s operations (2) There have been bans and regulations on fracking operations due to its negative impacts on the environment (3) While fracking operations come at a high risk, there have been significant benefits such as oil and gas production boost and low energy independence (4) Locals in most communities have actively spoke against the implementation in their habitats as it poses threats to their environment sustainability such as groundwater resources. Recommendations have been made for fracking operations to be carried out in areas that have the least or no occupancy to curb the effects that it imposes on the quality of life of the people.

Keywords: Fracking, Environmental Sustainability, Groundwater Resources, Regulatory Policies, Land Rights.

DOI: 10.7176/IAGS/102-01

Publication date: January 31^st 2025