The Fracking Debate: The Risks, Benefits, and Uncertainties of the Shale Revolution

Center on Global Energy Policy Series

by Daniel Raimi

Over roughly the past decade, oil and gas production in the United States has surged dramatically—thanks largely to technological advances such as high-volume hydraulic fracturing, more commonly known as “fracking.” This rapid increase has generated widespread debate, with proponents touting economic and energy-security benefits and opponents highlighting the environmental and social risks of increased oil and gas production. Despite the heated debate, neither side has a monopoly on the facts. In this book, Daniel Raimi gives a balanced and accessible view of oil and gas development, clearly and thoroughly explaining the key issues surrounding the shale revolution.The Fracking Debate directly addresses the most common questions and concerns associated with What is fracking? Does fracking pollute the water supply? Will fracking make the United States energy independent? Does fracking cause earthquakes? How is fracking regulated? Is fracking good for the economy? Coupling a deep understanding of the scholarly research with lessons from his travels to every major U.S. oil- and gas-producing region, Raimi highlights stories of the people and communities affected by the shale revolution, for better and for worse. The Fracking Debate provides the evidence and context that have so frequently been missing from the national discussion of the future of oil and gas production, offering readers the tools to make sense of this critical issue.

Genres: Politics, Nonfiction, Science, Economics, Environment

262 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 26, 2017

Reviews

[Odai Elyas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty interesting read, highly suggest anyone not familiar with the industry to give it a read.

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a nuanced discussion that explores the benefits, challenges, and risks of fracking often from the perspective of people who are directly impacted by thr industry (workers, landowners, communities). As the author surmises, rarely are these perspectives and stories ever as simple as being for or against fracking.

[Jeff Bobin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very informative look at the fracking industry showing both the positive and negative impacts it has on the economy, the fuel industry, the environment and the communities where it happens.

The information on what fracking is and the dangers it poses along with the things that can be done to mitigate those dangers are presented. The impact to the local economy and environment are outlines simply and in a way that is understandable to the common person.

Relatively brief read packed with information worth knowing.

[John Calhoun · Rating 3 out of 5]

A clear, fair survey of the pros and cons of fracking. Confirmed and smoothed out my understanding that fracking is a good medium-term stopgap bridge fuel, but that we must continue to invest publicly in renewal sources. Otherwise, natural gas could slow the movement long-term to a low-carbon or no-carbon economy. Also taught me that the environmental issues with wastewater and methane are real, but can be addressed with strong state- and local regulation.

[Laurel · Rating 4 out of 5]

For the first 1/3 of the book I was worried this was going to read like a conversation with an oil lobbyist, but as it progressed I felt the arguments began to balance out.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Conclusion: fracking isn’t that bad

[Jack · Rating 2 out of 5]

A highly contentious topic. Discusses mainly opinion and policy with some science and economics.

[Larry Mastin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aaaa

[Rui · Rating 3 out of 5]

It’s a good, balanced intro into the topic and environmental issues. For me, since I work in the industry, it was too high level and I didn’t get to learn as much about the details as I had hoped. Stopped reading 25% of the way through.