Shale Gas

Incorrect. Shale gas can be found at various depths.

Incorrect. Both shale gas and conventional natural gas are primarily composed of methane.

Correct! Shale formations have low permeability, making it difficult for gas to flow freely.

Incorrect. While shale gas formation involves unique conditions, it is still a form of natural gas.

Incorrect. Pore space within shale rock is a primary storage location.

Incorrect. Adsorption on shale mineral surfaces is a significant storage mechanism.

Incorrect. Fractures in shale can act as pathways and storage areas for gas.

Correct! Subduction is a geological process involving tectonic plates and is not directly related to shale gas storage.

Incorrect. Directional drilling is used to reach shale formations, but not for extraction.

Correct! Hydraulic fracturing (fracking) is essential for increasing permeability and releasing shale gas.

Incorrect. Acidization is used in conventional oil and gas production but not commonly for shale gas.

Incorrect. Thermal recovery methods are generally used for heavy oil and not typically for shale gas.

Incorrect. Shale gas is a non-renewable resource, but not directly linked to depletion of renewables.

Incorrect. While shale gas combustion produces greenhouse gases, the concern is focused on leaks during extraction.

Correct! Fracking fluids can potentially contaminate groundwater if not managed properly.

Incorrect. Ocean acidification is primarily caused by carbon dioxide absorption from the atmosphere.

Incorrect. Shale gas can contribute to fossil fuel dependence if not paired with renewable energy.

Correct! Shale gas development can boost local economies and create jobs.

Incorrect. Shale gas development doesn't directly impact the use of nuclear power.

Incorrect. While shale gas can replace dirtier fuels, its extraction and processing can contribute to air pollution.

Here are some key factors and potential policy measures to consider:

Factors:

• Economic Benefits: Job creation, increased energy independence, potential tax revenue.
• Environmental Risks: Groundwater contamination, air pollution, seismic activity, greenhouse gas emissions.
• Community Impact: Land use changes, potential impacts on water resources, social disruption.
• Technology & Innovation: Encouraging research and development of safer and more efficient extraction methods.
• International Collaboration: Sharing knowledge and best practices with other countries developing shale gas resources.

Potential Policy Measures:

• Strict Environmental Regulations: Implementing rigorous regulations to minimize risks of groundwater contamination, air pollution, and seismic activity.
• Public Consultation and Transparency: Ensuring transparency in data collection and sharing information with the public about potential risks and benefits.
• Community Benefits: Requiring companies to invest in local communities, such as infrastructure improvements and job training.
• Research and Development: Supporting research into cleaner and safer extraction techniques and environmental mitigation strategies.
• Sustainable Development: Promoting the use of shale gas as a transition fuel while investing in renewable energy sources.

Policy Development:

The specific policy measures will depend on the country's context, environmental sensitivities, and priorities. A balance needs to be struck between promoting economic development and minimizing potential environmental and social risks.