Green Frac^® Program

Chesapeake’s Green Frac^® program was founded in October 2009 to evaluate the types of additives typically used in the hydraulic fracturing process, to determine their environmental friendliness. After evaluations are completed, Green Frac calls for the elimination of any additive not critical to the successful completion of the well and determines if greener alternatives are available for all essential additives.

An industry-leading program, Green Frac is a decisive move toward an ever greener fluid system. To date, the company has eliminated 25% of the additives used in hydraulic fracturing fluids in most of our shale plays.

Despite being successfully used by the natural gas and oil industry since the 1940s, hydraulic fracturing continues to draw attention due to concerns over the contents of hydraulic fracturing fluids and potential contamination of groundwater, despite the fact that there is virtually no risk that the mixture can escape from the targeted zone. Most of the chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing can be found in common, everyday household products such as laundry detergents, cleaners and beauty products. Some are even present in food and beverage items. While some additives have historically been classified as toxic, many, such as pH-adjusting agents and chlorine-based sanitization aides, are found in approximately the same concentration as in your backyard swimming pool.

Through our Green Frac program, Chesapeake​ is actively searching for and identifying more environmentally friendly options for these products. Green Frac is also establishing simple guidelines for the company and our vendors to provide safe and proper handling of chemicals while on the surface and ensure environmentally friendly hydraulic fracturing operations. These guidelines will also be used to increase public understanding of the process and our necessity in the production of American oil and natural gas.​