The development of unconventional natural gas resources in the last decade has reshaped the energy mix in the U.S. Decisions that are being made now – often in sectors that may not have an obvious connection to gas production – will determine the energy mix over the coming decades.

The 2014 Critical Issues Forum, entitled America’s Increasing Reliance on Natural Gas: Benefits and Risks of a Methane Economy, reflected the strong interest and concerns associated with the development of natural gas resources. The two-day event was held at the Forth Worth Club in Fort Worth, Texas, on November 19-20, 2014.

The Forum examined the 5- to 30-year outlook for the development of a natural gas-dominant energy sector in North America and discussed the associated benefits and risks. Presentations highlighted our current understanding of the interrelated geological, environmental, and economic aspects of natural gas development and stimulated discussion on two overarching questions:

• Is a natural gas-dominant economy achievable in North America?
• Would a natural gas-dominant economy be desirable?

For information on this or future Critical Issues Forums, please contact Cassaundra Rose (crose@americangeosciences.org).

Forum Sponsorship support provided by:

The 2014 AGI Critical Issues Forum is a product of AGI's Center for Geoscience & Society