The Effects Of Hydraulic Fracturing On The Environment

Dangers of Hydraulic Fracturing Despite its many advantages, hydraulic fracturing poses serious threats to the environment. Some of the commonly identifiable effects of hydraulic fracturing include water pollution, over depletion of water resources, noise pollution, air pollution as well as contributing to land movements such as tremors and earthquakes (Boudet et al. 57). According to Boudet et al. (58), fracking presents challenges that prompted the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to commence investigations into the environmental effects of hydraulic fracturing. Fracking is a capital-intensive project that usually involves the clearing of lands, transportation of water resources, construction of critical infrastructures such as†¦show more content†¦According to a survey conducted by Anderson Theodori (135), the residents of Texas readily point to the accessibility to the right jobs and better living standards as some of the benefits of hydraulic fracturing. The residents are however quick to singl e out the fact that the availability of employment in Texas has also strained public utilities and social goods such as education, healthcare and even recreational facilities (Rahm 2981). Be that as it may, the residents identify many positive impacts and do not want hydraulic fracturing to be stopped. Controversies around Hydraulic Fracturing Some of the problems associated with hydraulic fracturing include a strain on the water resources in the State of Texas. The residents sampled in the Anderson and Theodori (131) survey asserts that fracking strains their water resources and forces them to reduce their water consumption. The residents were concerned that the continued over-exploitation of their water resources might, in the long run, result in depletion of the scarce resource (Gregory, Kelvin, Radisav, Vidic Dzombak 184). The quality of the water consumed by residents living in areas where fracking is conducted is a cause of primary concern. Given the fact that the water extracted from the mines is usually released back into the ecosystem, there isShow MoreRelatedHydraulic Fracturing And Its Effects On The Environment1087 Words   |  5 Pages Hydraulic Fracturing Maya Murray Mr. Iwasaki Chun MYP Chemistry Essay 3 May 2015 Maya Murray Mr. Iwasaki Chun MYP Chemistry 3 May 2015 Hydraulic Fracturing â€Å"Our country will have drilled and fracked our way down a blind alley for a short lived energy boom† (qtd. In †¦). Hydraulic fracturing, also known as fracking, is the process of drilling and injecting fluid into the ground at high pressure in order to fracture shale rocks to release natural gases inside. Many people are referringRead MoreThe Effects Of Hydraulic Fracturing On The Environment1275 Words   |  6 Pages Hydraulic Fracturing Hydraulic fracturing is known as the process of inserting sand, chemicals, or water into the ground to crack the deep deposits. Additionally, high pressure is required due to the far distance. Next, a pressurized rock layer is created, this is called Marcellus Shale. After, sand or water is used to keep the fissures open for continuous release of shale (natural) gas or oil. To transport water to the site, the trucks must be used for transportation. However, these huge trucksRead MoreHydraulic Fracturing And Its Effects On The Environment1737 Words   |  7 PagesHydraulic Fracturing has led to less cases of contamination than any other method of oil extraction, which is contrary to popular belief. There have been many useful regulations that turned a once feared industry to an environmentally safe, highly profitable industry. Hydraulic Fracturing is worth the risks it poses on the environment, because it will bolster the U.S. economy and foreign policy, provide billions of Petro leum barrels and trillions of square feet of natural gas, and it is not as harmfulRead MoreThe Effects Of Hydraulic Fracturing On The Environment1622 Words   |  7 Pages Hydraulic Fracturing is a process which uses water to crack rock formations as a means to extract natural gas or oil. This method is highly debatable as to whether it uses too much water in areas that have fragile water sources as well as whether the process contaminates surrounding water sources. The State of Texas is a hotspot for hydraulic fracturing because of the amount of shale formations which can produce oil and natural gas. Texas is a dry state which often experiences severe droughts. ThereRead MoreHydraulic Fracturing And Its Effects On The Environment1467 Words   |  6 PagesHydraulic Fracturing Introduction For this assignment I have chosen to look in to a subject that is in the news media spotlight. The subject is the process of hydraulic fracturing. In this paper, we will learn about this process by answering the following questions. First what is hydraulic fracturing and what is the process used for. Then we will look at the actual process of hydraulic fracturing (how it works). Next we will take a closer look at some of the chemical use during the hydraulic fracturingRead MoreThe Possible Effects of Hydraulic Fracturing in Newfoundland1278 Words   |  5 Pagesessay will examine the possible effects of hydraulic fracturing in Newfoundland. Hydraulic fracturing is the process of retrieving natural gas from the earth by injecting fluid into a borehole and pressurizing it, creating cracks in the rock. hydraulic fracturing fluid is made up of small beads of sand or ceramic, which prop open the cracks in the rock, as well as water and chemicals, which help suspend the proppants (sand or ceramic). The hydraulic fracturing fluid is pressurized, allowing theRead MoreFracking and the Halliburton Act Essay1132 Words   |  5 PagesIntroduction â€Å"Hydraulic fracturing involves the use of water pressure to create fractures in rock that allow the oil and natural gas it contains to escape and flow out of a well (Energy From Shale).† Fracking has served to extract natural gas and oil where other methods would not be as successful but many environmentalists argue that fracking is affecting the environment and our drinking supply of water. Although fracking is still a controversial topic, it provides Americans jobs, increases theRead MoreAlternative Energy Sources1852 Words   |  7 Pagesof the energy source through the process of hydraulic fracturing. In this report the following topics will be discussed to get a better understanding of natural gas and the hydraulic fracturing process. An overview of natural gas will be discussed. A detail description of the hydraulic fracturing process will be provided. The advantages and disadvantages of hydraulic fracturing will also be compared. Finally the report will look at h ydraulic fracturing in a South Africa context and weigh all theRead MoreHydraulic Fracturing Is Risky And Dangerous For The Environment1153 Words   |  5 PagesFlint did. Well there is. Everywhere there is Hydraulic Fracturing, there is a risk that your tap water will become polluted. Hydraulic Fracturing is risky and dangerous for the environment and not worth the benefits of natural gas. Hydraulic Fracturing is a process that involves drilling a well and injecting water at high speeds to break up rocks and minerals underground and allows natural gas to flow out to be collected, according to Hydraulic Fracturing Should be Banned written by the Food and WaterRead MoreHydraulic Fracturing Has Recently Grown In Popularity As1516 Words   |  7 PagesHydraulic fracturing has recently grown in popularity as a means of energy production. There are advantages and disadvantages, mainly relating to the environment and the economy, of this industry. Although there are pros and cons to both sides of the issue, a compromise needs to be found for both the safety of the environment and to be able to support affordable energy production. Hydraulic fracturing, as an industry, has had a large economic impact by creating jobs. Using natural gas from hydraulic The Effects Of Hydraulic Fracturing On The Environment Hydraulic Fracturing is a process which uses water to crack rock formations as a means to extract natural gas or oil. This method is highly debatable as to whether it uses too much water in areas that have fragile water sources as well as whether the process contaminates surrounding water sources. The State of Texas is a hotspot for hydraulic fracturing because of the amount of shale formations which can produce oil and natural gas. Texas is a dry state which often experiences severe droughts. There is debate about if Texas has sufficient water supplies to support hydraulic fracturing. Since hydraulic fracturing is a fairly new process, there needs to be more research to determine the realistic affect it has on the environment. The†¦show more content†¦Does fracking pollute the water of surrounding water systems to unsafe levels for human consumption? These areas will be explored throughout this document. 1 What is Hydraulic Fracturing The United States Geological Survey Energy Resources Program defines hydraulic fracturing as an oil and gas well development process that typically involves injecting water, sand, and chemicals under high pressure into a bedrock formation via the well (Hydraulic Fracturing). The process is meant to produce fractures in the rock formations which increases the flow of oil from the bedrock to the wells, where it can then be processed into crude oil (Hydraulic Fracturing). Despite being a fairly new method of extraction, fracking has quickly become one of the top methods in use. 2 Water Conditions in Texas. In June of 2014, 70 percent of Texas was in drought; of that 70 percent, 21 percent was classified as being in a state of extreme or exceptional drought (Everything You Need...). In 2013, the state climatologist said part of the cause of the drought was the climbing temperatures due to climate change (Everything You Need...). The climatologist stated that the average temperature in the State of Texas has increased an average of 2 degrees Fahrenheit since the 1970s (Everything You Need...). Texas has experienced several severe droughts throughout history including the droughts of the 1950s, 1984, and 1996 The Effects Of Hydraulic Fracturing On The Environment Hydraulic Fracturing Hydraulic fracturing is known as the process of inserting sand, chemicals, or water into the ground to crack the deep deposits. Additionally, high pressure is required due to the far distance. Next, a pressurized rock layer is created, this is called Marcellus Shale. After, sand or water is used to keep the fissures open for continuous release of shale (natural) gas or oil. To transport water to the site, the trucks must be used for transportation. However, these huge trucks use a massive amount of diesel, so it releases particles that harms the atmosphere. .Lastly, once the process is concluded, the pressure causes the water to flow above the ground surface. Thus, the water is contaminated with chemicals or other†¦show more content†¦Organizations also ensure the safety of the natural gas industry by creating the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission. This organization allows corporations to publicize the chemicals used of the gas production proce ss. In 2012, there were 17,000 disclosures reported from about 135 companies, (Pliss, p.2). In 2011, the Fracturing Responsibility and Awareness of Chemicals Act was proposed in Congress (Palliser, 23). This act would mandate hydrofracturing companies to disclose all chemicals used in the process. Passing this act would allow the Drinking Water Act to set standards to corporations. However, the Drinking Water Act is exempted by the fracturing industry. Hydraulic fracturing impacts the environment and human health, regulated by the EPA. The EPA oversees the hydraulic fracturing by making sure the companies have the required permit. Additionally, this organization ensures the safety of wastewater from hydraulic fracturing by correct disposal. Also, they provide ways to reduce the air emission especially from methane, commonly distributed during the fracturing process. Furthermore, Senate Fran Pavley, introduced a bill that would notify land owners about the process of hydraulic fractu ring, and a ground water testing for any contamination present (Palliser, 23). Senate Pavley stated that this bill would ease some tension for some people, those concerned about the environmental status of their community. Some states think that fracking should be avoided

The Colonization Of Africa Is A Significant Reason Why The...

The colonization of Africa is a significant reason why the educational system in Africa is split between the countries it holds. Between the late 1800s and early 1900s Africa faced many military annexations and diplomatic conquests. The impact of colonialism has influenced the conflicts in Liberia that happened in the late 1900s. Liberia s civil wars held a responsibility for the devastation that is implicated in its racial stance. Social Darwinism gave support for the superior rule over Africa. Liberia s conflicts play a notable role in how westernization of education and race are viewed throughout Africa. Liberia s education system emerged because of these conflicts. Colonizing Africa began between the 1870s-1900. An important tragedy of colonization is the stripping of ethnicities. Modern Africa is a product of European imperialism, not African heritage and tradition. Once the profits of the slave trade collapsed, because of its abolition, European markets were looking for ways t o keep a steady way to make profits. Traditionally, Africa had been divided into groups by tribe, family, clan and lineage. During the process of colonization these characteristics were social, economic and political. Colonial state formation caused new values, institutions and operational principles to take place. The African colonization required the taking of territories that were unknown to the political world. The old views on who would run each group were diminished by the new rulersShow MoreRelatedAnalysis About the Phenomenon of Racial and Gender Discrimination1005 Words   |  5 Pagesenvironmental problems, and the power and potential of democratic participation and collective action. 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Web. 16 April 2014. Although every country on the UN SecurityRead MoreCivil Wars in Western Africa: Nigeria, Sierra Leone1743 Words   |  7 Pagesrecognized state, c) the war occurred within the recognized boundary of that state, d) the war involved the state as one of the principal combatants, e) the rebels were able to mount an organized military opposition to the state and to inflict significant casualties on the state.† (Fortna). In addition, since the end of WWII, civil wars have lasted on average over four years and can bring tremendous economic collapse as seen in Somalia, Uganda, Angola, and more currently Syria. Since the end of WWIIRead MoreNotes18856 Words   |  76 Pageshas gone wrong in Africa since the advent of independence has been blamed on the legacies of colonialism. Is that fair? Virtually all colonial powers had â€Å"colonial missions.† What were these missions and why were they apparently such a disaster? Did any good come out of the African â€Å"colonial experience†? Introduction Colonization of Africa by European countries was a monumental milestone in  ­ the development of Africa. The Africans consider the impact of colonization  ­ on them to beRead MoreEssay on Apartheid Explored in Country Lovers and The Welcome Table2283 Words   |  10 PagesThe article by Nadine Gordimer (1975) in Country Lovers and Alice Walker (1970) in The Welcome Table explored the theme of racism and apartheid in different contexts. Gordimer depicts in this story how during the period of apartheid in South Africa, children were taken in different schools based on their racial backgrounds. Although they were allowed to play together, children from black families were taken to schools that were meant for black while their white counterparts were taken to schoolsRead MoreThe Italian Invasion of Ethiopia and Its Impact on Education3464 Words   |  14 Pageseducation as all existing attempts to modern education came to a complete standstill, in short it was a negative period in the history of Ethiopian education. Overall the educational policies that were instilled during this time had a considerable social impact on the Ethiopian population and in some ways are the foundations of the educational structure we have today. Ever since their defeat at Adwa the Italians always had a secret lust for revenge. The advancement to power of the Fascist in Italy inRead MoreEssay about Anthro Final6421 Words   |  26 Pagesunder age 12 are engaged in wage employment. e. children are being replaced by women as the primary wage earners for the family. 8. Wage employment of children under age 14 is nearly universally condemned for all of the following reasons except: a. children are often exploited. b. children often work in unsafe and dangerous conditions. c. children lose their opportunity for proper education. d. children cannot earn enough money to help their familiesRead MoreHow Education Affects Women s Leadership3516 Words   |  15 Pagesleadership traits of women today. The article presented many obstacles women may overcome when discussing women’s leadership effectiveness, education, work-life, and solutions for increasing their status in various cultures. Communication also play a significant part in the hindrance of women in the leadership roles. Studies involving the difference in male and female communication patterns will be examined throughout the course of this literature review. Often women are excluded in the topic of globalizationRead MoreComparison of the Renaissance and Enlightenment.3470 Words   |  14 Pagesworld; the basis of the modern European civilization and capitalist system were then founded. Technological innovations increased the rates of economic development. Great geographical discoveries opened up the boarders of the Western world, thus accelerating the formation of national, European and world markets. Major changes in art, music, literature and religion wrecked the system of medieval values. Another period marked by significant changes, is the eighteenth century or an age of Enlightenment.Read MoreHis171 Part 7, E3 Eznotes5586 Words   |  23 Pagesgovernment to support those industries. d. had the most advanced scientific institutions.* e. was forbidden to do military research. 6. The most prominent early use of electric current was a. in steel making. b. for lighting.* c. for telegraph systems. d. in the chemical dye industry. e. for the electric chair. 7. The negative environmental effects of nineteenth-century industrialization included all of the following except a. smoke and particulate matter polluting the air. b. large piles

Persian Wars Essay Example For Students

Persian Wars Essay The Persian Wars In the 5th century BC the vast Persian Empire attempted toconquer Greece. If the Persians had succeeded, they would have set up localtyrants, called satraps, to rule Greece and would have crushed the firststirrings of democracy in Europe. The survival of Greek culture and politicalideals depended on the ability of the small, disunited Greek city-states to bandtogether and defend themselves against Persias overwhelming strength. Thestruggle, known in Western history as the Persian Wars, or Greco-Persian Wars,lasted 20 yearsfrom 499 to 479 BC. Persia already numbered among its conqueststhe Greek cities of Ionia in Asia Minor, where Greek civilization firstflourished. The Persian Wars began when some of these cities revolted againstDarius I, Persias king, in 499 BC. Athens sent 20 ships to aid the Ionians. Before the Persians crushed the revolt, the Greeks burned Sardis, capital ofLydia. Angered, Darius determined to conquer Athens and extend his empirewestward beyond the Aegean Sea. In 492 BC Darius gathered together a greatmilitary force and sent 600 ships across the Hellespont. A sudden storm wreckedhalf his fleet when it was rounding rocky Mount Athos on the Macedonian coast. Two years later Darius dispatched a new battle fleet of 600 triremes. This timehis powerful galleys crossed the Aegean Sea without mishap and arrived safelyoff Attica, the part of Greece that surrounds the city of Athens. The Persianslanded on the plain of Marathon, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) from Athens. When the Athenians learned of their arrival, they sent a swift runner,Pheidippides, to ask Sparta for aid, but the Spartans, who were conducting areligious festival, could not march until the moon was full. Meanwhile the smallAthenian army encamped in the foothills on the edge of the Marathon Plain. TheAthenian general Miltiades ordered his small force to advance. He had arrangedhis men so as to have the greatest strength in the wings. As he expected, hiscenter was driven back. The two wings then united behind the enemy. Thus hemmedin, the Persians bows and arrows were of little use. The stout Greek spearsspread death and terror. The invaders rushed in panic to their ships. The Greekhistorian Herodotus says the Persians lost 6,400 men against only 192 on theGreek side. Thus ended the battle of Marathon (490 BC), one of the decisivebattles of the world. Darius planned another expedition, but he died beforepreparations were completed. This gave the Greeks a ten-year period to preparefo r the next battles. Athens built up its naval supremacy in the Aegean underthe guidance of Themistocles. In 480 BC the Persians returned, led by KingXerxes, the son of Darius. To avoid another shipwreck off Mount Athos, Xerxeshad a canal dug behind the promontory. Across the Hellespont he had thePhoenicians and Egyptians place two bridges of ships, held together by cables offlax and papyrus. A storm destroyed the bridges, but Xerxes ordered the workersto replace them. For seven days and nights his soldiers marched across thebridges. On the way to Athens, Xerxes found a small force of Greek soldiersholding the narrow pass of Thermopylae, which guarded the way to central Greece. Leonidas, king of Sparta, led the force. Xerxes sent a message ordering theGreeks to deliver their arms. Come and take them, replied Leonidas. For two days the Greeks long spears held the pass. Then a Greek traitor toldXerxes of a roundabout path over the mountains. When Leonidas saw the enemyapproaching from the rear, he dismissed his men except the 300 Spartans, whowere bound, like himself, to conquer or die. Leonidas was one of the first tofall. Around their leaders body the gallant Spartans fought first with theirswords, then with their hands, until they were slain to the last man. ThePersians moved on to Attica and found it deserted. They set fire to Athens withflaming arrows. Xerxes fleet held the Athenian ships bottled up between thecoast of Attica and the island of Salamis. His ships outnumbered the Greek shipsthree to one. The Persians had expected an easy victory, but one after anothertheir ships were sunk or crippled. Crowded into the narrow strait, the heavyPersian vessels moved with difficulty. The lighter Greek ships rowed out from acircular formation and rammed their prows into the clumsy enemy vessels. Twohu ndred Persian ships were sunk, others were captured, and the rest fled. Xerxesand his forces hastened back to Persia. Soon after, the rest of the Persian armywas scattered at Plataea (479 BC). In the same year Xerxes fleet was defeatedat Mycale. The threat of Persian domination was ended.