HYDRAULIC FRACTURING
Introduction
Considering hydraulic fracturing, a well which is vertical which is almost seven thousand feet is drilled before it’s course is shifted horizontal and directed to gas and oil deposits layer (Lawrence, A. T., & Weber, J., 2017). The operators than utilize pumps to introduce a large number of chemicals, and sand using high pressure to aid in breaking shale then release hydrocarbons that are withdrawn using the drill hope. Through rotation of horizontal turns, one well is used to reach a vast area underground.
The expansion of hydraulic fracturing in America over recent periods is astonishing; in 2014 over one million wells for gas and oil were functioning in thirty-six states. The hydraulic fracturing has several merits, and America has evolved into a top natural gas producer in the globe, superseding Russia in gas and Saudi Arabia in oil. Hydraulic fracturing has generated employment, royalties to landowners and tax revenue.
Natural gas is considered to be environmental friendly more than oil and coal and provides a substantial bridge to tomorrow’s economy depending on renewable energy. However, this activity also imposes several ecological challenges (Lawrence, A. T., & Weber, J., 2017). The heavy machinery and automobiles generate air pollution and noise pollution in regions which surround the drilling sites. This process utilizes a large volume of water which cuts down the sources for irrigation and human consumption water deposits. The chemicals which are pumped underground contains a massive amount of toxins, the flow backs from the well includes radioactive materials, organic compounds, and heavy metals. The improper disposal of waste products from the underground extracts contaminates land, available water and sometimes the activities associated with hydraulic fracturing results in earthquakes.
The government has introduced regulations that demand business organizations to disclose chemicals used in the fracturing process and have also imposed rules controlling wastage disposal, product storage, and other related policies. These policies have resulted into development of technological innovations that support health and reduction of environment destruction (Lawrence, A. T., & Weber, J., 2017). There is also the installation of surveillance cameras to assist in the monitoring of such activities. The practical policies include using safer materials, preventive measures concerning water disposal and materials storage.
Reference
Lawrence, A. T., & Weber, J. (2017). Business and Society: Stakeholders, ethics, public policy. Tata McGraw-Hill Education.