Wastewater is the single largest waste stream associated with oil and gas production, generating nearly 900 billion gallons per year in the US. Facing disposal complexities from seismicity, drought, and calls for conservation, alternative management strategies for part of this waste stream are being considered—and in some instances implemented—by the oil and gas industry. Yet, significant knowledge gaps exist regarding potential risks to human health and the environment from such practices. More and better data are vital to effectively inform others about the importance of this issue, the risks that produced water may pose, and the research and potential regulatory improvements required to reduce those risks. EDF is working to identify and advance the science needed to advocate for smart decision-making on produced water management to minimize risks to public health and the environment. Chief among these needs are improved tools to characterize this waste stream and its potential impacts if released without proper treatment. This presentation will provide an overview of ongoing and collaborative scientific research with universities across the country on these subjects including, but not limited to, analytical methods for the identification and quantification of organic chemicals, and application of novel bioassays for toxicity assessment of produced water.

Continuing research to identify and address environmental and human health risks associated with the alternative management of oil and gas wastewater

255th National Meeting (2018)

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