With shale gas already heralded as a game changer in North American markets, what role will unconventional natural gas resources come to play in the global supply mix? Answering this question requires the examination of a unique set of challenges which the global petroleum industry finds itself facing today. Complex environmental, social and technical issues must be navigated for the development of safe and sustainable hydraulic fracturing practices to unlock the full potential of this unconventional resource. This guide will examine the issues around hydraulic fracturing in a practical and user-friendly manner. The practical new handbook will feature contributions from leading authorities in the field, including Guy Dayvault of Energy Deal Solutions, Jessica Davies and Rebecca Perkins of Allen & Overy and Michael Darowski of Hogan Lovells. Chapters cover key issues such as the regulation of hydraulic fracturing, including water use and disposal, natural gas pricing trends and operator issues, and coal seam gas and coal bed methane. Together, the contributions afford crucial insight into one of the youngest and fastest-moving areas of the natural gas industry. This guide will be an essential reference tool for natural gas producers, lawyers in private practice and in-house, energy industry advisers and end users worldwide, providing a practical and timely overview of the shale gas industry.