11/26/2024
Fracking, or hydraulic fracturing, can have many negative impacts on human health and the environment, including:
Water contamination
Fracking chemicals can contaminate drinking water sources and nearby waterways. This can happen if wells are installed incorrectly, chemicals are spilled, or flowback water isn't contained. Flowback water is the water that returns to the surface after fracking, and it often contains high concentrations of salts and additives.
Air pollution
Fracking sites can release toxic air pollutants, including petroleum hydrocarbons like benzene and xylene. These pollutants can cause respiratory problems, cancer, and birth defects.
Earthquakes
Fracking can trigger microseismic events, or microearthquakes, which can be used to map the extent of the fracturing.
Wildlife harm
Fracking can harm wildlife in many ways, including:
Contaminated water: Fish can die when fracking fluid contaminates streams and rivers.
Wastewater ponds: Birds can be poisoned by chemicals in wastewater ponds.
Noise: Noise from compressor stations can stress birds and make it harder for them to hunt.
Light pollution: Light from oil and gas operations can be deadly for migratory birds and disrupt other nocturnal animals.
Habitat loss
Fracking can fragment forests and rural landscapes, and degrade wildlife habitats.
Climate change
Fracking releases methane, a potent climate change pollutant