Spatial Discontinuities in Support for Hydraulic Fracturing: Searching for a “Goldilocks Zone” |
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| Authors: | Chad Zanocco Hilary Boudet Christopher E Clarke Peter D Howe |
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| Institution: | 1. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA;2. School of Public Policy, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA;3. Department of Communication, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA;4. Department of Environment and Society, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA |
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| Abstract: | Recent research suggests that those located closer to energy development are, on average, more supportive of this development. However, case studies in specific locations reveal additional nuance. In a case study of Bakken Shale residents, Junod et al. identified a “Goldilocks Zone” of unconventional oil and gas development (UOGD) acceptance—an area on the periphery of development that is “just right” because residents feel close enough to receive economic benefits but far enough away to avoid negative impacts. We explore whether this Goldilocks Zone extends nationally by combining geocoded public opinion data (N?=?23,154) with UOGD locations. Using multilevel regression modeling, we find that respondents located within 115?km of newly active UOGD are more supportive of hydraulic fracturing while those located within 115–305?km are comparatively less supportive. While we do not uncover a national-level Goldilocks Zone, our work highlights innovative approaches for examining spatial relationships in energy development opinion. |
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| Keywords: | Hydraulic fracturing geographic proximity public opinion unconventional oil and gas development multilevel regression modeling |
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