Study disputes gas leak concern on fracking

Hydraulic fracturing, also known as fracking, is a process of extracting natural gas or oil applying pressurized fluid deep into the ground so that fractures in rocks will be formed. This process increases rock permeability, which provides pathways for natural gas or oil to move upward.

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At a certain extent, hydraulic fracturing generates concerns and contestation within the country and around the world. Some skeptical individuals and organizations hold their ground until other alternative techniques come up.

For instance, many fear that drilling for shale gas causes huge amounts of gas leaks into the air. However, The New York Times presents a study that contests this. Conducted by the University of Texas and supported by the Environmental Defense Fund and nine petroleum companies, the study reinforces the uses and advantages of hydraulic fracturing, as advocated by several groups that stand strong on their belief that shale gas is a better energy source than coal.

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The study showed that fracking makes significantly smaller leaks of methane gas than the Environmental Protection Agency had estimated and shale gas detractors had thought. Furthermore, it stated that 99 percent of methane gas that escapes from new wells is captured through containment measures.

While the researchers of the study expect questions of objectivity, petroleum experts believe that the research and its proponents are reputable and reliable.

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The oil and gas sector holds an unending interest among oil professionals, such as Dr. Ali Ghalambor. Find more materials about the industry by following this Twitter account.