Integrating Shale Gas Development and Hydroponic Farming: A Sustainable Pathway for Energy and Food Security in Pakistan

Abstract

Pakistan is facing deep energy crisis primarily a severe energy deficit which has threatening sign for Pakistani Economy. To that end, this research paper explores whether shale gas development may be the solution to this crisis as it strives to improve food security through hydroponic farming. In the first part, the study entails a implication of the exploration potential of shale formations in Pakistan especially with regard to porosity, thickness and depth implications on rate of gas flow and drilling expenses. Consequently, the results suggest that the Pakistan’s shale gas resources contain about 105 trillion cubic feet, which defines significant potential for the production.

Besides the assessment of the effectiveness of modern technical approaches to the development of the technology for shale gas extraction, the study focuses on the global tendencies for the implementation of the shale gas development with insistence on hydraulic fracturing technology. It also covers issues of environmental impact of the extraction techniques and measures on how these can be a versed to enhance sustainable practices on the environment. Economic viability of shale gas is determined by the evaluation of initial costs involved and the second, strength of its economic returns for the national economy in the long run.

In addition, the paper goes further to demonstrate the practice of hydroponic farming as sustainable farm practice that can help reduce water usage while at the same time increase crop production. This research promotes a cross-sector cooperation with the energy and agriculture industries disclosing local opportunities to meet critical challenges in energy and food security. In the long run, strong and effective government policies regarding the shale gas drilling and hydroponic farming projects would indeed help in the creation of stronger economy of Pakistan for accommodating its increasing needs.