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Hydraulic fracturing – Integrating public participation with an independent review of the risks and benefits

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  • Wheeler, David
  • MacGregor, Margo
  • Atherton, Frank
  • Christmas, Kevin
  • Dalton, Shawn
  • Dusseault, Maurice
  • Gagnon, Graham
  • Hayes, Brad
  • MacIntosh, Constance
  • Mauro, Ian
  • Ritcey, Ray

Abstract

This paper describes a fully independent public participation and review process on the environmental, economic, health, community and social risks and benefits of hydraulic fracturing for the development of unconventional gas and oil resources. We describe the approach taken to maximise public engagement in the process and how that participation informed the work of an independent panel charged with examining the scientific evidence and related legal issues. The major findings from the review are presented, including a risk matrix which summarises the frequency, severity and mitigation measures for 16 potential hazards associated with hydraulic fracturing, as they may pertain to the province of Nova Scotia in Canada. We discuss the complexity of managing public perceptions of novel risks such as hydraulic fracturing and conclude with brief observations on the contribution of the review to public policy.

Suggested Citation

  • Wheeler, David & MacGregor, Margo & Atherton, Frank & Christmas, Kevin & Dalton, Shawn & Dusseault, Maurice & Gagnon, Graham & Hayes, Brad & MacIntosh, Constance & Mauro, Ian & Ritcey, Ray, 2015. "Hydraulic fracturing – Integrating public participation with an independent review of the risks and benefits," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 85(C), pages 299-308.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:enepol:v:85:y:2015:i:c:p:299-308
    DOI: 10.1016/j.enpol.2015.06.008
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Heather Millar, 2020. "Problem Uncertainty, Institutional Insularity, and Modes of Learning in Canadian Provincial Hydraulic Fracturing Regulation," Review of Policy Research, Policy Studies Organization, vol. 37(6), pages 765-796, November.
    3. Lei Tao & Longlong Wang & Jiajia Bai & Na Zhang & Wenyang Shi & Qingjie Zhu & Zhengxiao Xu & Guoqing Wang, 2024. "Investigation of the Combination Mechanism of Spontaneous Imbibition and Water Flooding in Tight Oil Reservoirs Based on Nuclear Magnetic Resonance," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(3), pages 1-18, February.
    4. Lai, Po-Hsin & Lyons, Kevin D. & Gudergan, Siegfried P. & Grimstad, Sidsel, 2017. "Understanding the psychological impact of unconventional gas developments in affected communities," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 101(C), pages 492-501.
    5. Lee, Michelle H.W. & Clark, Ashley & Rupp, John & Wietelman, Derek C. & Graham, John D., 2019. "Public opinion toward hydraulic fracturing: The effect of beyond compliance and voluntary third-party certification," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 128(C), pages 306-315.
    6. Clarke, Christopher E. & Evensen, Darrick T.N., 2023. "Attention to news media coverage of unconventional oil/gas development impacts: Exploring psychological antecedents and effects on issue support," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 173(C).
    7. Brisbois, Ben & Hoogeveen, Dawn & Allison, Sandra & Cole, Donald & Fyfe, Trina M. & Harder, Henry G. & Parkes, Margot W., 2021. "Storylines of research on resource extraction and health in Canada: A modified metanarrative synthesis," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 277(C).

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