Correlates of perceived safe uses of hydraulic fracturing wastewater: Data from the Marcellus Shale

Abstract

Public debate concerning possible threats to water quality and quantity as a result of hydraulic fracturing (fracking) in the natural gas industry is widespread. In response, scientists working at universities, public research centers, and in the private sector have developed a variety of methods for treating wastewater from hydraulic fracturing operations for re-use. This report examines the public’s views about the potential safe uses of such treated water for industrial and farm use and animal and human consumption. Data for this analysis were drawn from a 2012 survey of 800 residents in the Marcellus Shale region of Pennsylvania. The analysis addresses the following research question: How are these perceptions of safe usage related to residents’ sociodemographic characteristics, usage of various sources of information about hydraulic fracturing, and the extent to which these sources are “trusted”? Implications of the findings are discussed.