Defining the shale gas life cycle: A framework for identifying and mitigating environmental impacts

In this working paper, WRI proposes a life cycle framework for shale gas. This life cycle spans exploration to well closure/site remediation, and from production to use. Readers may use the life cycle boundary for their own assessments of shale gas impacts. In addition, WRI compares its life cycle boundary to those in 16 assessments of shale gas production’s environmental impacts. The findings illustrate significant variations in the scope of such studies, which complicate shale gas discussions. (© WRI)