A Fractured Bond: Exploring the Presence of Animals in Unconventional Energy Development Mass Media Coverage

• In Event: 317 - Section on Animals and Society Roundtable Session (one-hour).
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 02. Animals and the Environment

Abstract

The US is currently experiencing an energy boom in the form of unconventional development (high volume horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing) (also known as HVHHF). Scholars have documented an array of risks posed to animal populations through conventional and alternative energy developments. While the risks posed to animal populations from unconventional development is less understood, it is likely that animals will shoulder the greatest risk. However, an application of the Treadmill of Production theory leads us to believe that an industrial and national focus on expansion will limit the recognition of the animal other in this discourse. The current study seeks to assess if and how animals are being positioned in mass media coverage of HVHHF. To do this, I have collected and analyzed 1000+ national stories on HVHHF. Preliminary findings indicate that animals are rarely mentioned. However, when they are mentioned they become indicators of contamination and human exposure.

Authors

• Cameron Thomas Whitley, Michigan State University

• Melanie Bowers, Michigan State University