Impacts of shale gas and shale oil extraction on the environment and on human health
November 9, 2011
shalegas_pe464425_en.pdf (application/pdf Object).
Impacts of shale gas and shale oil
extraction on the environment and on
human health
STUDY
Abstract
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.
IP/A/ENVI/ST/2011-07 June 2011
GDACC 
