The process of fracking has long been debated, and with the effects it has on our planet, there is no wonder as to why. However, while many people understand fracking to be a generally negative process, the definition can sometimes still be a little hazy.
But, what does fracking actually mean? Let’s put it simply — essentially, it is the process of injecting hot liquid, oftentimes water, at extremely high pressure into rocks to force fissures to open up. This enables naturally-occurring gases and oil to flow more freely, and for them to be more accessible to oil companies. The impact of fracking in countries such as the United States has been significant, the rewards of which are generally perceived to be positive — economically, at least. Indeed, it is true that fracking enables companies to access previously untapped resources of hydrocarbons, thus driving down the market prices of oil and gas. Some have also said that it is an environmentallyfriendlier option, as it replaces coal with natural gas, which emits half the amount of carbon dioxide. Having said this, we cannot ignore the repercussions that fracking undeniably has on our environment, as well as the smaller ecosystems that exist within it. So, what are the impacts of fracking on the planet?