Is there scientific evidence to support the selection of hydraulic fracturing rules

摘要: The application of hydraulic fracturing to hydrocarbon-rich basins has evolved since the first tentative steps stimulate conventional oil reservoirs in United States Mid-West late 1940s, into a widely practiced technology, principally used today gaining commercial flows unconventional hydrocarbon reserves. early technology was directed toward draining methane from coal seams as safety measure (Thakur 2014), evolving assist recovery coalbed systematic use resources. In conjunction with horizontal drilling and completions real time micro-seismic monitoring understanding nature resources geology, phenomena modern shale gas extraction transformed US energy landscape. Following this break-through US, other jurisdictions commenced similar pursuits for their petroleum potential. just one more aspect rapidly complex business where regulations were state permanent catch-up. Regulations address specific environmental1 risks2 associated on-shore spread new jurisdictions. State oversight is norm worldwide than single-level federal such UK. Elsewhere, regulation generally restricted outer envelope environmental impacts air quality standards receiving water standards, except case off-shore activities. tend be exploration development processes local government exerting control using planning rule3s noise set-back. Off-shore dominated by authorities across globe due complexities national waters contiguous extending economic zone boundaries (Nordtveit 2015, Gordon Paterson 2015). This paper builds on earlier work fifty five assessed (Campin 2013). Self-selected rule categories (fifty nine elements) identified based frequency occurrence various regulatory frameworks examined. rationale justification protection parameters examined documentary evidence selected rules. draws peer reviewed, scientific literature or official reports agencies sector. Regulation absence critical base been strongly criticised industry serving no useful purpose imposing unnecessary cost. included demonstrates presence lack connectivity between science