What could be the impact of shale gas exploitation on the water management?

Abstract

A b s t r a c t. The industry related to the extraction of hydrocarbons from unconventional deposits (shale gas, tight gas, shale oil), developing intensely since the beginning of the 21st century, requires a comprehensive approach to environmental issues arising from the commonly used technology. Because of the hydrauling fracturing process, groundwater management issues are the most important. Analyses should be performed for the aspects of the project's water needs, water circulation system in the process, definition of the water sources, as well as for the issues related to the protection of surface and ground waters in the area of geological operations. In the light of the current European debate about the safe use of unconventional hydrocarbons, the need for integrated water management is particularly important.