PittsburghTODAY and our research colleagues at the University of Pittsburgh's University Center for Social and Urban Research are pleased to present the Pittsburgh Regional Environment Survey -- the most significant and in-depth survey to date on the region's environment.

This survey details the attitudes and behaviors of the region's citizens in several key environmental issues: air and water quality, the Marcellus Shale, conservation, government regulation and the economy vs. the environment.

The enlightening results portray a region whose residents believe that the environment plays a significant role in the region's future attractiveness and economy. Residents are mixed about the Marcellus Shale, believing it represents a strong economic opportunity, while expressing concerns about possible public health affects. More than 95 percent believe that shale drillers should be required to publicly disclose the chemicals used in fracking fluids.

The perception -- despite the facts -- that Greater Pittsburgh does not have a significant air quality problem persists. And in general, citizens would like to see greater government oversight of the region's environment and believe that that would not hamper the region's economy.  

We believe this is must reading for citizens who are concerned about the future of the region's environment and encourage you to read the complete report here.