The Pros And Cons Of Fracking
The Fracking Controversy A controversial new method of extracting natural gas from the earth has become a danger for Americans. This method is called Hydraulic Fracturing, or Fracking. This drilling has made it possible to retrieve methane gas trapped in the shale rock that lays thousands of feet below the ground. For some, fracking can be seen as a good thing for our country. Fracking is boosting the nation’s economy, creating jobs and energy export opportunities, and strengthening the energy independence of the United States. Although it may help in some aspects, it comes at a very high cost to the American people. Fracking is extremely harmful to the water supply, the environment, and the population. Fracking requires anywhere from two to nine million gallons of water to be used during every application. Once used, the water becomes toxic waste due to the many chemicals used in the process. About half of the water stays underground, while the other half comes back up through the well. The water that comes back up the well brings toxic chemicals and radioactive
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Recently in an article titled “Fracking, 2013,” it was reported that potentially toxic chemicals – including cancer-causing benzene – have been found in the air near fracking sites. (Polsen) Regions containing many drilling rigs have high levels of smog as well as other airborne pollutants, including potential carcinogens, which are substances directly involved in causing cancer. Benzene and other chemicals that irritate eyes and cause headaches, sore throats, or difficulty breathing were found in the air near the wells as well. Many people have become incredibly sick because of where they live. When these residents look to the government for help, the only answer they receive is to simply move out of their homes. Some people have resided in the same home their entire lives and refuse to leave, thus becoming
Recently in an article titled “Fracking, 2013,” it was reported that potentially toxic chemicals – including cancer-causing benzene – have been found in the air near fracking sites. (Polsen) Regions containing many drilling rigs have high levels of smog as well as other airborne pollutants, including potential carcinogens, which are substances directly involved in causing cancer. Benzene and other chemicals that irritate eyes and cause headaches, sore throats, or difficulty breathing were found in the air near the wells as well. Many people have become incredibly sick because of where they live. When these residents look to the government for help, the only answer they receive is to simply move out of their homes. Some people have resided in the same home their entire lives and refuse to leave, thus becoming