Summary and Final Tasks
Summary
Congratulations, you've reached the final page! We have covered a lot of territory this semester exposing you to new concepts and ideas and we sincerely hope that you have found this course insightful. Shale energy has created a renaissance in the US in many ways, through how we develop and produce energy, utilize these resources for power generation and industrial uses, and for a variety of academic research initiatives. This is a time of energy abundance in the US that we could not have predicted just a decade ago, and shale energy will be a critical part of our oil and gas resources over the next several decades. As other countries around the world embark on developing their own shale resources, the US model may be attempted to be replicated, therefore we need to make sure we set a good example for the global energy paradigm. The US has good examples of regulatory frameworks, workforce development initiatives, government and industry-funded research, and best management practices that may apply to other countries and shale basins. As energy security becomes more important for countries (especially developing countries), shale energy can help stabilize the imports and exports of energy, create economic opportunities, and provide a cleaner form of energy especially when paired with renewable energy. Social license is a key part of the process, which involves stakeholder engagement and public education and outreach from energy companies, universities, and government entities alike in order for countries and communities to understand and benefit from shale energy resources. On a geopolitical scale, shale may play a key role in certain regions to ease energy-related tensions. Ultimately our society needs energy, a clean environment, and viable economic opportunities, which shale can play a role in and toward which you all now can now apply your keen insights. Go forth and do good things!
Reminder - Complete all of the Lesson 12 tasks!
You have reached the end of Lesson 12! Double-check the to-do list on the Lesson 12 Overview page to make sure you have completed all of the activities listed there before you begin Lesson 12.