Analysis of Potential Environmental Risks in the Hydraulic Fracturing Operation in the “La Luna” Formation in Colombia

Abstract

This article presents an in-depth analysis of potential environmental risks associated with hydraulic fracturing operations within the “La Luna” formation in Colombia. Using the Conesa methodology, it assesses the environmental impacts of unconventional reservoir production in Colombia, including water usage, chemical additives, air emissions, and the potential for groundwater contamination. This study incorporates comprehensive data on geological characteristics, operational procedures, and environmental conditions specific to the region. This analysis highlights the need for a proactive approach to managing potential environmental risks associated with hydraulic fracturing in Colombia. The findings underscore the importance of implementing robust regulatory measures, comprehensive monitoring systems, and the industry’s best practices to mitigate and prevent adverse environmental impacts. This research contributes to the ongoing global dialogue on the environmental implications of hydraulic fracturing in regions with sensitive ecological conditions. The environmental impacts of unconventional reservoirs are widely recognized as a general consensus; however, the absence of applied studies with the rigor of an explicit methodology in Andean countries highlights the need for specific research in this region. This article addresses this gap by proposing a detailed and structured methodology to assess and mitigate environmental impacts in unconventional reservoirs. Emphasizing the importance of knowing the characteristics of reservoir fluids, this research highlights that this critical information is only revealed by drilling exploration wells and PVT (pressure, volume, and temperature) analysis. Obtaining this data is crucial for shaping specific mitigation measures, thus allowing for the formulation of a robust environmental management plan tailored to the conditions of the reservoirs in the Andean region. This precise and contextualized approach contributes to closing the knowledge gap and promotes more sustainable practices in the exploitation of unconventional reservoirs in this specific geographical context. The methodology used in this study proved its effectiveness by accurately quantifying the risks associated with each of the environmental alterations inherent to the hydraulic fracturing process in the La Luna formation. The results obtained allowed for the identification of the critical points most susceptible to environmental impacts, serving as a solid basis for the elaboration of an environmental management plan. This strategic approach not only enabled the delineation of specific mitigation measures but also facilitated the selection of the most appropriate locations for the implementation of the plan, maximizing the effectiveness of corrective actions. It is noteworthy that the successful application of the Conesa methodology in this unconventional reservoir context evidences the versatility and applicability of this approach, consolidating it as a valuable tool for environmental assessment and effective planning in the hydraulic fracturing industry.