If you live in New Brunswick, you know the fracking debate is a familiar one. The provincial government is reviewing its moratorium on natural gas development. As officials weigh their options, opponents point to new scientific evidence showing environmental and health risks. Proponents argue that technology has advanced, making the process safer than before. According to a recent report by CBC News, both sides bring updated arguments to the table.

The Water Debate

Fracking blasts a mix of water and chemicals deep underground to release trapped gas. Jim Emberger of the New Brunswick Anti Shale Gas Alliance says the process uses more water today because companies frack greater underground distances from a single well. Maurice Dusseault, emeritus professor of geological engineering at the University of Waterloo, counters this point. He notes that the industry recycles fracking fluid. This recycling limits the amount of water requiring treatment or underground storage.

Health and Contamination Risks

Emberger highlights recent studies linking fracking to severe health issues. A 2025 University of Pittsburgh study found a connection between childhood lymphoma and proximity to fracking sites. A 2022 University of Calgary study linked living near hydraulically fractured wells to lower birth weights and preterm births. Dusseault points out that companies have modified the chemical makeup of fracking fluids to reduce risks. Regulators require companies to disclose these substances and ban certain harmful chemicals. Both experts agree that natural gas sometimes contaminates residential wells. Dusseault attributes this to leaky well casings rather than the fracking process itself.

A Waterless Alternative for Moncton?

Jim Livingstone proposes a different approach for Stoney Creek near Moncton. His company, Innovation Energy, partnered with Pabineau First Nation to use a waterless drilling method. This technique uses dry air and a valve system. It requires less than 20,000 litres of water per well. Traditional fracking in Western Canada uses up to 23 million litres.

Earthquakes and Climate Change

Scientists agree that fracking causes significant earthquakes. Jurisdictions like Alberta and British Columbia use a traffic light system to manage this risk. A 2.0 magnitude quake forces companies to reduce pressure. A 3.5 magnitude quake triggers a complete shutdown. Climate change remains a central concern. Emberger argues that any new fossil fuel development pushes global warming past the 1.5 C threshold. The Canadian Climate Institute estimates that national greenhouse gas emissions increased in 2025 due to higher gas usage for heat and electricity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is fracking?

Fracking involves blasting water and chemicals deep underground to release trapped oil or gas from shale rock.

Why is New Brunswick reconsidering fracking?

The provincial government is reviewing its 2014 moratorium on shale gas exploration. Officials will decide whether to lift it by January 2027.

What are the main health concerns?

Recent studies link living near fracking sites to higher risks of childhood lymphoma, lower birth weights, and preterm births.

Is there a waterless fracking option?

Yes. A proposed method uses dry air and a valve system. This approach reduces water usage from millions of litres to under 20,000 litres per well.