Hydraulic Fracturing – Data Set

Summary

Hydraulic Fracturing Data Set: Fugitive Emissions Analysis

This data set activity asks students to analyze fugitive emissions, or unintended gas leaks, across sectors over time. Students interpret trends from 1990 to 2022, estimate changes in emissions, compare sectors, and propose engineering or policy strategies that could reduce methane leakage and other unintended releases.

The activity is useful for teachers searching for environmental science activities for high school, data analysis worksheets for climate and energy, or methane emissions classroom activities. It connects hydraulic fracturing to the broader issue of greenhouse gases and infrastructure maintenance, helping students understand why methane leakage matters even when natural gas can reduce carbon dioxide emissions compared to coal.

This resource also supports NGSS-aligned science practices such as interpreting data, making evidence-based claims, and evaluating system-level improvements.

Extend the Lesson:
Use this data set before or after the community debate to help students support their arguments with evidence. It also pairs well with lessons on Environmental Impacts of Energy or Natural Gas.