The techniques of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, and horizontal drilling have come together over the past decade to change the American energy landscape. Now more and more researchers are looking into the potential risks the technologies could pose to the environment and human health. This documentary includes a visit to Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania – one of the earliest epicenters of shale gas drilling.
Industry experts and residents who live near shale gas drilling operations were interviewed, as well as researchers from the University of Michigan involved in the U-M Graham Institute for Environmental Sustainability’s integrated assessment on hydraulic fracturing as it pertains to the state of Michigan. (Reports will be released in June 2013).
ABOUT THE PROFESSORS:
- Brian Ellis is an assistant professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Michigan College of Engineering. Ellis is part of the Graham Institute’s team studying Michigan’s geology. His research interests cover topics related to the sustainable and safe development of emerging energy technologies. Included among these activities are geologic storage of CO2 and large-scale hydrualic fracturing of unconventional oil/gas reservoirs.
- Johannes Schwank is the James and Judith Street Professor of Chemical Engineering at the University of Michigan College of Engineering. Schwank part of the Graham Institute team studying fracking technology. His research program is focused on fundamental and applied research problems in heterogeneous catalysis, thin films, and chemical sensors. A major theme is the development of correlations between surface structure of materials and their reactivity.
- Knute Nadelhofer is a professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Michigan’s College of Literature, Science and the Arts. Nadelhofer is part of the Graham Institute’s team studying Michigan’s environment and ecology.
> See more stories, videos, photos and information about an upcoming town hall meeting on the future of fracking. The town hall will be also be webcast.
