Fracking Uncertainty: Hydraulic Fracturing and the Provincial Politics of Risk

“The emergence of hydraulic fracturing in recent decades has created new economic opportunities for fossil gas production, but also uncertain environmental risks. Through comparison of four Canadian provinces that adopted diverse positions on ‘fracking’ Heather Millar illustrates how distinctive ‘risk narratives’ pointed policymakers to different advisors, consultation processes and, ultimately, regulatory outcomes. Millar’s book provides a novel and convincing analysis on a hugely important issue.” Kathryn Harrison, Professor of Political Science and Brenda and David McLean Chair in Canadian Studies, University of British Columbia

“Heather Millar brings a welcome new lens to the politics of fracking: different public perceptions of risk. Her framework goes beyond simple answers to help readers understand how different risk frames lead to diverse policy choices across states and provinces on regulating unconventional oil and gas development. The book will be valuable to scholars and professionals interested in the ‘fracking’ controversy, as well as other policies regarding uncertain or contested risks.” Leigh S. Raymond, Gund Chair in the Liberal Arts, University of Vermont

“The advent of hydraulic fracturing opened the door to expanded oil and gas production and an array of related environmental concerns. Heather Millar adeptly leads a coast-to-coast examination of how provinces across Canada responded politically and produced a highly varied set of policies. Her book is a model for scholarship in comparative sub-federal politics and policy.” Barry Rabe, Arthur Thurnau Professor of Environmental Policy, University of Michigan

“Fracking Uncertainty is a rigorous assessment of why differing perceptions of risk develop, and how provinces are managing the trade-offs of fracking. This is precisely the kind of analysis we need to guide policy development – and civil society mobilization – in the last years of Canadian oil and gas extraction.” Angela Carter, Canada Research Chair in Equitable Energy Governance and Public Policy, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador