Science-based decision-making on complex issues: Marcellus shale gas hydrofracking and New York City water supply

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Energy Policy
• Toxicology

Background:

• High-volume hydraulic fracturing (HVHF), commonly known as hydrofracking, is a key technology for exploiting unconventional natural gas resources.
• While the United States leads in HVHF technology and production, international plans are emerging for major shale reservoirs.
• New York State faces a critical decision regarding the future of HVHF, with ongoing debates surrounding its environmental and economic implications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively evaluate the liabilities and benefits of Marcellus natural gas exploitation.
• To assess the adequacy of New York State's current regulatory framework for HVHF.
• To analyze the interplay between HVHF, global climate change, energy tradeoffs, economics, and political regulation.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific and technical aspects of HVHF.
• Integration of global climate change considerations.
• Analysis of energy tradeoffs, economic factors, and political regulatory frameworks.

Main Results:

• HVHF presents significant potential benefits for transitioning to a clean energy economy.
• Current New York State regulations are insufficient to mitigate potential irreversible environmental threats.
• The New York City water supply is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of HVHF.

Conclusions:

• A ban on drilling within New York City's water supply watersheds is recommended.
• Substantial investments in state and federal regulatory enforcement are necessary to prevent environmental damage.
• While HVHF may be permitted elsewhere in New York State under stricter regulation, the NYC watershed requires specific protection.