Fractured Public: Assessing Hydraulic Fracturing Safety Opinions Among the U.S. Public

• In Event: 192 - Regular Session. Risk

Abstract

The U.S. is currently experiencing a rapid expansion in unconventional energy development, specifically in the area of natural gas. While comparative analyses have documented differences in localized risk perception on a number of factors, we know little about general public sentiment regarding overall safety. Similar to debates nuclear energy risks, it is likely that public perceptions will dictate how expansion occurs and what regulations are instituted to diminish safety concerns. In this study, we use data from a nationally representative survey to identify the individual and state characteristics that influence hydraulic fracturing risk perceptions. First, we find that being male, familiarity with fracking and renewable production are positively effect opinion formation, while income is negatively related. Second, we note that perception of safety is correlated with being male, education, income, political ideology, party affiliation, and tea party support. However, being non-white, fracking occurring in state of residence, living in the West (compared to Midwest), unemployment rate and renewable energy production are negatively correlated with safety perceptions. Additionally, we find significant interactions between ideology and education, and ideology and familiarity. Our findings provide a rich foundation to the study of hydraulic fracturing risk perceptions. We conclude our study by making a number of recommendations for future research in this area.

Author

• Cameron Thomas Whitley, Michigan State University