Films such as Gaslands provide a high impact perspective on fracking and the effects it can have, however our actions need to be based on sound research and data. There is a solid body of evidence that strongly supports the case for opposing fracking in terms of the environmental, economic and energy need aspects. It can also provide independent confirmation of the dramatic events reported in films and press.
Below are links to relevant articles. Please add others you may come across using the form below. We will endeavour to show a concise listing of the most recent or relevant material.
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Clean Alternatives
- Zero Carbon Britain 2030.
A framework on how we can realistically achieve freedom from fossil fuels by 2030.
Climate Change
- 2010 CO2 emissions a record high
- An assessment of climate change and environmental impacts, Tyndall Centre, Nov 2011
- Greenhouse gas footprint of shale gas
Shows that shale gas has from 20% to 100% greater contribution to GHG than coal over a 20 year period, and similar effectover 100 year period. Methane leakage during production is 30% to 100% more than conventional gas.
Economic Perspective
- A first look at EU shale gas prospects. Deutsche Bank Oct 2011
Assessment suggests more limiting factors and higher cost in Europe than in USA so will not have nearly as significant in impact on gas prices. UK break-even costs approx twice that of US European Gas. - Fracking boom likely to be a bubble. Huffington Post, Jan 2012
Environmental Impact
- Cracks in the Facade - Water Contamination
Fractures can extend for 2500 ft and frequently to 1000ft, and can spread to neighbouring wells. - Methane contamination of water, April 2011
Shows very large increase of Methane up to 1km from active wells with concentrations high enough to be an explosive hazard. Heightened methane levels also found up to 4.5km from inactive wells.
Extreme Energy - General
- Fracking and Coalbed Methane: Unconventional gas in the UK
Covers the technology of shale gas, coalbed methane and underground gasification and looks at their role in meeting our energy needs. - Shale Gas: Focus on the Marcellus Shale, 2008
Report on fracking in the Marcellus Shale. Covers topics such as geology, types of drilling, water use, chemicals and radioactivity and well spacing.
Geology, Licensing
Health and Community
- Breast cancer links to shale gas extraction
Links cancer rates to states where shale gas extraction is prevalent - Fractured Communities - Case studies of environmental impacts
A detailed look at some of the effects of gas drilling on environment, communities and health. Based on investigations, findings, and statements of state and federal regulators.
Miscellaneous - Science and Data
- Fracking contribution to truck traffic
Trucking stats suggest that transportation related to fracking could account for 4.5% of US truck loads and 26% of tank loads
Pollution
- Air samples reveals high emissions from fracking
Air samples near Denver suggest as much as 4% of methane may be leaking from fracking sites.
Press
- The Fracking Industry’s War On The New York Times - Oct 2011
Mentions the industry’s intimidation against NYT and PR, plus links to various negative research and misleading estimates of reserves
Reference Information
- Frac Focus - Chemical disclosure registry
Texas drilling operators will have to provide this site with details of chemicals and water used (starting Feb 2012)
