Fracking: Greenhouse Gas and Water Essay Example

most comprehensive shale gas emissions study explored methane leakage in 190 well pads across the US and found that if released directly into the atmosphere, methane can cause greater climate change than carbon dioxide. Gas companies refuse to take responsibility for their actions but continue to benefit from job creation and perceived economic advantages. While some individuals may not be aware or concerned about water contamination risks, others are fighting for water purity and future sustainability amidst harmful fracking effects.Despite the supposed environmental benefits of hydraulic fracturing, there is cause for alarm due to possible groundwater contamination caused by the release of methane during extraction. Pound for pound, methane has 105 times more warming impact than carbon dioxide, making even small quantities significant in terms of climate change. The amount of methane leaked during fracking remains a contentious issue. While some argue that hydraulic fracturing can stimulate economic growth and create jobs, it could ultimately prove detrimental to both short-term and long-term economies. Additionally, few industry workers will come from local areas, resulting in limited employment opportunities. Furthermore, farmers may experience decreased business as consumers become concerned about contamination from carcinogens and radioactivity. Industrial pollutants also pose a threat to the tourism sector as visitors seek clean air and relaxation. Ultimately, any job creation will be temporary as resources are depleted over time.Although some environmentalists support natural gas as a transitional fuel to replace dirtier options and reduce CO emissions, it remains a fossil fuel emitting greenhouse gases. Rather than investing in gas infrastructure, energy companies should focus on developing renewable energy sources due to the harmful effects of fracking on groundwater pollution and earthquakes.

It is more economically and environmentally beneficial to produce green energy over fossil fuels. Additionally, oil and gas producers can adopt improved water-treatment options at fracking sites instead of transporting them for disposal or treatment elsewhere. Disposing waste water through underground injection reduces the risk of releasing contaminants in waste water according to the Pacific Institute. Fracking is an unnecessary and dangerous activity that benefits only oil industry executives; investment should be made into creating a hydrogen-based energy economy that is renewable, scalable, and inexpensive with proper safeguards in place. Despite extreme measures taken to prevent harmful outcomes from actions such as fracking, their impact on humans' environment cannot be ignored affecting both current and future generations including various ecosystems.In addition, it gives power to self-centered groups who are not responsible for any potential negative consequences.