Environmental Implications of Shale Gas Hydraulic Fracturing: A Comprehensive Review on Water Contamination and Seismic Activity in the United States

Abstract

Recent scholarship has highlighted the significant environmental impact of the rapidly expanding hydraulic fracturing industry, which is projected to grow from USD 15.31 billion in 2021 to USD 28.93 billion in 2028 at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.5%. Recognizing the need for comprehensive, national-scale evaluations, this review of the literature investigates contamination and induced seismicity associated with shale gas hydraulic fracturing in the United States. Employing systematic reviews of the literature and federal reports up until July 2023, this study reveals multiple areas of concern, including water and soil contamination, seismic activity, and air pollution. A notable finding is the average use of 2.4 million gallons of water per well in hydraulic fracturing, of which only 15–35% is typically retrieved. However, ongoing studies are actively exploring remediation strategies, including advancements in monitoring and treatment technologies, as well as the potential of reusing wastewater for hydraulic fracturing, as exemplified by the Garfield County region in Colorado; they utilized 100% wastewater to mitigate the impact of contamination. These findings underscore the need for stringent regulations, sustained research, and effective management practices. This work emphasizes the importance of a collaborative approach that leverages field studies, experimental investigations, and computational advancements to ensure the responsible development of shale gas resources.