Environmental Impacts of Shale Gas Development on Groundwater, and Flowback and Produced Water Treatment Management: A Review

Shubiao Pan, Ye Zhang (), Peili Lu (), Demin Yang, Yongkui Huang, Xiaochuan Wu, Pei He and Dongxin Guo
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Shubiao Pan: National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Shale Gas Exploration and Development, Chongqing Institute of Geology and Mineral Resources, Chongqing 401120, China
Ye Zhang: National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Shale Gas Exploration and Development, Chongqing Institute of Geology and Mineral Resources, Chongqing 401120, China
Peili Lu: Department of Environmental Science, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
Demin Yang: National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Shale Gas Exploration and Development, Chongqing Institute of Geology and Mineral Resources, Chongqing 401120, China
Yongkui Huang: National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Shale Gas Exploration and Development, Chongqing Institute of Geology and Mineral Resources, Chongqing 401120, China
Xiaochuan Wu: National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Shale Gas Exploration and Development, Chongqing Institute of Geology and Mineral Resources, Chongqing 401120, China
Pei He: National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Shale Gas Exploration and Development, Chongqing Institute of Geology and Mineral Resources, Chongqing 401120, China
Dongxin Guo: Chongqing Huadi Resources and Environment Technology Co., Ltd., Chongqing 401120, China

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 11, 1-32

Abstract: The rapid expansion of shale gas development has revolutionized global energy markets, yet it has also introduced substantial environmental challenges, particularly concerning groundwater resources. This comprehensive review systematically examines the multifaceted impacts of shale gas extraction on groundwater, with a focus on contamination mechanisms, pollutant sources, and mitigation strategies. The study identifies key operational stages—exploration, drilling, hydraulic fracturing, and flowback—as potential sources of groundwater contamination. Inorganic pollutants, including heavy metals and radionuclides, as well as organic compounds such as hydrocarbons and chemical additives, are identified as primary contaminants. The review critically evaluates current wastewater treatment technologies, including reinjection, internal reuse, and advanced desalination methods, highlighting their efficacy and limitations. Additionally, the study proposes a refined environmental management framework that integrates wellbore integrity optimization, enhanced shale gas wastewater treatment, and stringent monitoring protocols. The adoption of clean fracturing technologies and renewable energy applications is recommended to minimize environmental footprints. By establishing comprehensive baseline data and robust pollution monitoring systems, this research provides a scientific foundation for sustainable shale gas development, ensuring the protection of groundwater resources. This review emphasizes the imperative of balancing energy security with environmental sustainability, offering actionable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and environmental scientists.

Keywords: flowback and produced water; groundwater contamination; hydraulic fracturing; contamination mechanisms; pollutant sources; treatment technologies (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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