Hydrofracking, otherwise known as hydraulic fracturing, has been a concerning matter for many. “A technique in which large amounts of water, combined with smaller amounts of chemicals and sand, are pumped under high pressure into a drilled gas well” (energywilkes). And although harsh sounding, the energy sources that are readily accessible to us today would no longer be so, well, accessible. Things such as oil shale, tight oil and coal seam gas. Since this is the case, we haven’t had to import oil nearly as much nor have we had to be dependent on other countries for such an incredibly important good-oil. Hydrofracking also provides for good paying jobs. According to greengarageblog.org, Hydrofracking brought stable employment for several states such as, Colorado, Wyoming and North Dakota. This then lead to a domino effect of all good things to follow; that being the rise in living standards, an uprise in local businesses and the ability to provide wages that will keep families afloat.
On the other hand, Hydrofracking like anything else has it’s downfalls. First off, it’s just unsafe. Yes, hydrofracking is mostly the use of water and sand, but there are other chemicals that enter this process, which then may lead to contamination in local water supply. These chemicals that are use in Hydrofracking leak into the ground-water used that local residences may use as drinking water, which is quite terrifying.
Hydrofracking also produces both silicon and methane as well and comes with high risks of oil spills.
So while taking all of this into consideration, it’s clear to see that Hydrofracking needs constant looking over; and if it’s properly performed and watched over, the method doesn’t seem too harmful. As a matter of fact, it seems quite practical, with it’s potential societal advantages and economic benefits. But it’s also comes with an endless warning label. Is there too much at stake?
Via (http://vjel.vermontlaw.edu/topten/cracking-down-on-fracking/)