Because of the much more intense nature of the shale gas extraction process it is associated with much more negative impacts than conventional drilling. These include leaking methane, water contamination, air pollution, radioactive contamination, massive industrialisation of the landscape, worsening climate change and earthquakes. Severe health effects in people and animals are beginning to mount areas where shale gas extraction is widespread.
The shale gas industry leaks large amounts of methane (a very strong greenhouse gas) at all stages of exploration, production and legacy. In addition it makes available fossil fuels that would not otherwise be burnt, significantly worsening climate change.