Injection-Induced Earthquakes

TLDR

Industrial activities such as hydraulic fracturing and wastewater injection are increasingly recognized as potential triggers for earthquakes in regions previously considered seismically inactive. This review aims to evaluate recent seismic events linked to industrial activity, particularly deep‑well wastewater injection, and to identify the scientific gaps in assessing induced‑earthquake hazards. The authors synthesize recent seismic observations, assess current scientific understanding, and outline key challenges for hazard evaluation.

Abstract

Earthquakes in unusual locations have become an important topic of discussion in both North America and Europe, owing to the concern that industrial activity could cause damaging earthquakes. It has long been understood that earthquakes can be induced by impoundment of reservoirs, surface and underground mining, withdrawal of fluids and gas from the subsurface, and injection of fluids into underground formations. Injection-induced earthquakes have, in particular, become a focus of discussion as the application of hydraulic fracturing to tight shale formations is enabling the production of oil and gas from previously unproductive formations. Earthquakes can be induced as part of the process to stimulate the production from tight shale formations, or by disposal of wastewater associated with stimulation and production. Here, I review recent seismic activity that may be associated with industrial activity, with a focus on the disposal of wastewater by injection in deep wells; assess the scientific understanding of induced earthquakes; and discuss the key scientific challenges to be met for assessing this hazard.