Public Awareness, Perception, and Acceptance of the Environmental Implications of Shale Gas Extraction on Water Resources: A Case Study of Zawia City

Abstract

Public perception assessment plays a significant role in understanding the development of shale gas and its impact on water resources. Shale gas is increasingly being produced as an alternative to conventional gas and oil in many countries due to its availability in various parts of the world. Shale gas extraction has the potential to contaminate groundwater due to the release of flow-back water during the extraction process and the deep injection of water containing a mixture of chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing. The substantial water requirements for this process could potentially impact groundwater supplies, which would have implications for ecosystems dependent on groundwater and other water uses. In Libya, substantial deposits of shale gas exist, and concerns regarding the potential environmental impact of shale gas extraction techniques such as hydraulic fracturing are growing. In this study, 304 residents in Zawia city, located in the northwest of Libya, were surveyed to gather their perspectives on the potential effects of shale gas development on the quantity and quality of water resources. The survey questions were categorized based on information, knowledge, awareness of technology used. Feedback and basic demographic and socioeconomic information of the respondents were collected through online and in-person surveys. The responses were analyzed using statistical and descriptive methods. The results showed that 40.3% of the participants expressed a perception that shale gas has a potential negative impact on water resources. It was also observed that some of the feedback varied depending on age, gender, and education level, while others were relatively independent of these criteria. This study and future research in this field will contribute to shaping public opinion and policies related to the development of unconventional gas and oil.