Shale gas has transformed the energy market in the United States where drilling is underway in 17 states with more than 80000 wells drilled or permitted since 2005 Deposits elsewhere in the world are under varying degrees of exploration The main environmental impacts of the process are water usage waste water management methane emis sions groundwater and soil contamination These are generally addressed as part of national environmental regulations and strong Stakeholder engagement is critical in addressing concerns Noise impact is also a signifcant issue Drilling typically takes place 24 hours a day and where drilling is close to residential areas there is a signifcant risk of disturbance triggering complaints Managing the noise impact from shale gas drilling CASE STUDY