EPA to develop standards for wastewater discharges

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is to develop standards for wastewater discharges produced by natural gas extraction from underground coalbed and shale formations.

Wastewater associated with shale gas extraction is prohibited from being directly discharged into waterways and other water bodies of the US.

The EPA will consider standards based on demonstrated, economically achievable technologies for shale gas wastewater that must be met before going to a treatment facility.

For coalbed methane, the EPA will consider uniform national standards based on economically achievable technologies.

The agency will gather data, consult with stakeholders, including ongoing consultation with industry, and solicit public comment on a proposed rule for coalbed methane in 2013 and a proposed rule for shale gas in 2014.