Abstract: The hydraulic fracturing(HF)technique, pivotal in enhancing permeability, has found widespread application in shale gas extraction endeavors. However, the extensive utilization of HF has elicited significant environmental issues, prompting substantial public scrutiny. This study conducts a comprehensive review and synthesis of research advances concerning the environmental ramifications of shale gas extraction, particularly focusing on investigations conducted in China, North America, and other pertinent regions. Subsequently, it scrutinizes the potential environmental challenges arising from HF and posits corresponding mitigation strategies. The findings indicate that the water consumption density associated with shale gas extraction through HF does not rank highest among various energy extraction modalities, such as conventional oil and gas exploitation, geothermal energy utilization, and nuclear energy production. The aggregate water utilization for HF typically constitutes a minor fraction of regional water consumption and does not appreciably escalate water supply pressures. To curtail water usage, the adoption of flowback water recycling emerges as a potent strategy. Furthermore, the exploration of foam-based fracturing fluids or the utilization of supercritical CO₂ as fracturing agents represents alternative avenues for conserving water resources. The likelihood of groundwater contamination from HF fluids and formation brines migrating upward through newly formed fractures and reactivated pre-existing faults during shale gas extraction is deemed negligible. This is primarily ascribed to the prevailing low permeability of sedimentary basin formations and constrained hydraulic gradients from shale reservoirs to shallow aquifers. Instances of shallow groundwater contamination predominantly stem from well completion deficiencies or inadequate storage and handling practices. Nonetheless, uncertainties persist in the identification of pollutant sources through geochemical and isotopic methods during HF operations. Establishing comprehensive surface water and groundwater monitoring schemes, alongside the judicious selection of pollution indicators for routine evaluation, emerge as imperative measures to preclude water resource contamination. Furthermore, the development of advanced numerical simulation techniques adept at characterizing fracture heterogeneity on a site or regional scale to forecast fluid migration within formations warrants pursuit. Lastly, HF may induce seismic activity, underscoring the imperative for further enhancing seismic risk assessment, prediction, and early warning systems to mitigate the risks associated with induced seismicity.