Shale Gas and Fracking: The Science Behind the Controversy

Shale Gas and Fracking: The Science Behind the Controversy explains the relevant geological principles before examining the peer-reviewed evidence and presenting it through a simple and compelling illustrated narrative. Each chapter focuses on a particular controversy, such contamination of well water with gas from fracking, and follows a similar format: starting with the principles; then detailing peer-reviewed case studies for earthquakes, radioactivity, and climate change; and concluding with a judgment of the general risks involved.

Shale Gas and Fracking: The Science Behind the Controversy provides readers with the unbiased information they need to make informed decisions on the controversial issue of fracking.

Presents a clear and unbiased view of the pros and cons of fracking in Europe and the US, through a simple and compelling narrative from an informed publicly-funded scientistIncludes full-colour diagrams, photographs, and maps to present information clearly and simplyFocuses on peer-reviewed, documented examples, particularly of earthquakes and groundwater contamination due to fracking

Preface 1. The Fuss About Shale

2. Shale, Shale, Everywhere

3. To Frack or Not to Frack

4. Gas in our Water

5. Did the Earth Move?

6. The Shale Gas Factory

7. Shale Gas and Climate

8. Keeping Watch

9. The Science Behind the Controversy

Glossary

Conversion Table