Fracking, or hydrological fracturing, has been a highly debated issue in the United States, leading to discussions on how it affects the environment and economics. In our exploration of the video, we see a conflict of interests: on the one hand, it is a question of self-sufficiency in energy and prosperity, while on the other hand, this issue causes considerable concern about the ecology. Even though they are beneficial economically, fracking cannot be disregarded because of the destructive effects it causes on the environment.
One notable environmental concern brought to light through the film is the contamination of water resources resulting from fracking fluids. Everything used in hydraulic fracturing can get mixed with the groundwater and pollute it, jeopardizing the health and ecology. The Environmental Protection Agency has studied water safety and found dangerous chemicals in water samples near the fracking sites. The chemicals used in the fracking process are known to affect health negatively. The film also focuses on the problem of leaking methane during extraction. Methane is also a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming and causes serious harm to the communities near the sites where people carry out fracking.
Concerning the economy, the movie depicts the positive benefits of fracking and indicates that it helps increase local supply and reduce dependence on the importation of energy products. The increase in the production rate of natural gas created employment, especially in economically distressed parts. Supporters of fracking argue that it allows the country to benefit from the energy advantage. However, it is imperative to undertake a comprehensive study of these economic gains. For instance, in the documentary “Gasland,” certain instances of towns that have suffered economic difficulties due to the environmental consequences of fracturing are depicted. Real estate becomes worthless, farming is threatened, and their ability to remain economically viable in the long run is questioned.
Consequently, a comprehensive regulatory regime is one of the most imperative conditions for resolving the pressure arising from ecological threats and economic benefits. The short video outlines why it is essential to make strict laws to reduce the adverse effects of hydraulic fracturing on nature. The cleanliness of the air and water needs to be protected through strict laws, according to several reliable resources. However, one would expect many arguments on how well these existing rules work out. The “revolving door” phenomenon that occurs when individuals with close connections with an organization suddenly become regulators raises integrity concerns regarding monitoring.: This leaves no doubt that open and robust laws should be in place at first to ensure people’s health and the environment.
In addition, through subtle insinuations, the film touches on issues of environmental impact, social impacts, and even economic costs associated with fracking. Several factors must be considered, such as the split among communities, clashes between environmentalists and industrial supporters, and health outcomes impacts. A case study published in “The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health” investigates communities’ social dynamics and health outcomes near drilling sites. This research illuminates the plethora of consequences surrounding fracking.
Thus, this movie about hydraulic fracturing in the USA is quite controversial since it manages to draw lines between natural degradation and economic enhancement. Even though it will be evident that financial gains are evident, one cannot ignore the chances of damage to the environment, public health, and social harmony. My stance is unequivocal: the negative environmental impacts of fracking outweigh its benefits. It is also fortified by the fact that there should be a robust regulatory framework, increased oversight, and a deep understanding of the socio-economic side of fracking. Upon viewing the video, with information taken from multiple sources, I decided to be fast in action. Our choices today about hydraulic fracturing will have significant implications for the economy, the environment, and community health. However, we should prudently weigh the pros and cons, considering the future livelihood of our country rather than short-term profits.
References
Davis, C. (2017). Fracking and environmental protection: An analysis of U.S. state policies. The Extractive Industries and Society, 4(1), 63–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.exis.2016.12.009
Meng, Q. (2017). The impacts of fracking on the environment: A total environmental study paradigm. Science of The Total Environment, 580, 953–957. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.12.045
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