[NewJerseyJoe]

>> "They also argue that fracking releases heat-trapping methane gas into the air."

Why don't I believe this claim? Because any fracking company that would let valuable methane escape -- rather than trapping it for use or for sale -- would need a new manager and a new business plan.

[Almondjoy]

I’m not sure to the extent they are still doing this but it use to be common practice. However, many times companies would burn it off, hense the flames you see on some of the oil pumps. Methane is far more expensive to capture and transport.

[thackney]

Because any fracking company that would let valuable methane escape -- rather than trapping it for use or for sale

Hydraulic Fracturing is done after the drilling but before the well is completed. There is often no gathering equipment or associated pipeline in place to capture and use at that time.

[painter]

Why don't I believe this claim? Because any fracking company that would let valuable methane escape -- rather than trapping it for use or for sale -- would need a new manager and a new business plan.

The problem is there is so much gas that the oil companies don't have enough pipelines or storage to contain it. Right now they are "flaring"(burning) it off until new pipelines come online..