Hydrofracking, known to some as Hydraulic Fracturing, is an economical “hope” to the natural gas campaign. Oil is expensive, and the world is desperate for a solution. But what is hydrofracking? Is it environmentally friendly? Will it really save us money? Is it even an ethical process?
When I first heard the term “hydrofracking”, I thought the newscaster had simply made a verbal error. Up until today, I knew little about it this process other than it was considered by some as the “key” to natural gas. After looking into the process and effects more closely, I discovered that like many things in the world, its negative problems greatly outweigh its benefits.
The process of hydrofracking is rather complicated, but in the simplest terms, it’s a method of collecting natural gas located in gas shale deposits. There is some point in the drilling where drilling occurs horizontally rather than the usual vertical method, and sand, chemicals and LOTS of water are used in the drilling process. There are many chemicals used, such as hydrochloric acid, diesel fuel, benzene, lubricants, and many biocides. Obviously, with so many chemicals used, toxicity becomes a huge problem. If the chemicals mix in with the water it could lead to the contamination of drinking water.
Beyond just the negative effects on water, there are severe environmental impacts caused by hydrofracking. To even begin, all surrounding trees are cut down, and any species living there find themselves without their natural habitat. Ground water can also be contaminated, and likely includes long term impacts. As the drill works its way into the ground, it goes directly through the water table underground, thus having a huge effect on our water system. Yet there are also concerns before the drilling even begins. According to a March, 2011 New York Times article, “Toxic chemicals are also trucked to thousands of wells; road accidents, leaking valves and other mishaps can lead to spills”.
Perhaps hydrofracking is a more economical solution to oil, perhaps it’s even favorable to some politicians hoping to get away from needing anything from the Middle East, however for our environment it’s a dangerous system. We are already in a global warming crisis; we can’t afford to take the easy road or the cheap road at the cost of our environment. It’s time to instead oppose this controversial method, and as Gandhi once said, “be the change you wish to see in the world”.
In the video below, actor Mark Ruffalo explains why he opposes Hydrofracking in New York.
Sources:
New York Times
Peace Council
Wall Street Journal
Wikipedia
the little comic you began with is the perfect explanation of hydrofracking! great way to sum up the controversy!