Shale Gas: A review of the Economic, Environmental and Social

Sustainability

Economic aspect is that large scale production of shale gas has led to sharp drop in gas prices but
initial cost is higher. This has impacts on three environmental media water, land and air. This has
high GWP (Global warming potential), POCP (Photochemical oxidants creation potential) three
times higher than solar PV. Main objection of shale gas is only water use and impact.
Eutrophication potential (EP) OF ELECTRICITY from shale gas in the central case broadly
compared to that of conventional gas, leaving behind offshore wind and solar PV. Area occupied
by shale gas is comparable to those of wind and solar and significantly smaller than coal.
Terrestrial eco-toxicity is around a third lower than that for solar PV, wind and coal. The
magnitude of tremors by hydraulic fracturing of shale gas are typically not felt or felt cause little
damage. Social aspects are creation of employment. Health and safety issues (e.g. accidental
rate) are lower than mining, construction and agriculture. Public perception has insufficient data
about shale gas whether it should be used or not.
Conclusion is that shale gas should be used because it has large impact on economy as
significant result of lower in energy prices and large employment vacancies best use of green
technology has less environmental impacts.
Recommendation is that best practice and BAT, can help to protect people and environment.
Collaboration between industry, academia and government is essential.

Submitted By: Muhammad Waseem

Submitted to: Dr.Usman Ali
Registration no: 2017-MS-CH-48