Economic, Environmental, and Health Impacts of the Fracking Boom

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

10-1-2021

Publication Title

Annual Review of Resource Economics

Volume

13

First page number:

311

Last page number:

334

Abstract

The shale gas boom revolutionized the energy sector through hydraulic fracturing (fracking). High levels of energy production force communities, states, and nations to consider the externalities and potential risks associated with this unconventional oil and natural gas development (UOGD). In this review, we systematically outline the environmental, economic, and anthropogenic impacts of UOGD, while also considering the diverse methodological approaches to these topics. We summarize the current status and conclusions of the academic literature, in both economic and related fields, while also providing suggested avenues for future research. Causal inference will continue to be important for the evaluation of UOGD costs and benefits. We conclude that current economic, global, and health forces may require researchers to revisit outcomes in the face of a potential shale bust.

Keywords

Economic externalities; Environmental; Fracking; Hydraulic fracturing

Disciplines

Agricultural and Resource Economics

Language

English


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