Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, is a mining technique in which a liquid (usually water) is mixed with sand and chemicals and injected at high pressure into a wellbore to stimulate migration of the target material to the well.

There has been much discussion recently about the benefits and risks of this technique. Therefore, on May 9, 2014, the EPA announced that it will seek public comment on what information could be reported and disclosed for hydraulic fracturing chemicals and mixtures and the approaches for obtaining this information, including non-regulatory approaches. The EPA is also soliciting input on incentives and recognition programs that could support the development and use of safer chemicals in hydraulic fracturing. A public comment process will help inform EPA’s efforts to promote the transparency and safety of unconventional oil and gas activities while strengthening protection of our air, water, land and communities.

This comment period is directed to the public in general. However, it may also be of interest to businesses that manufacture, import, process, or distribute chemical substances or mixtures used hydraulic fracturing. In addition, the EPA anticipates that states, tribes, and other industries may be interested in commenting.