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"Fracking," has become a new hot topic in the world of environmental hazards. For those who do not know what fracking is, it is the the occurrence of fractures in rocks where companies drill for oil or fossil fuels. The biggest consequence from this is that harmful gases are seeping into water systems; so much so that some faucets while turned on, can have their water literally be set on fire. Recently, however, a new light has shed on this dreadful issue. In an unexpected alliance, major environmental companies along with oil companies are teaming together to tackle this problem. They have combined their efforts and developed fifteen standards for oil drilling and handling. Some of these newly formed standards involve drill regulation, water recycling services and of course an eye on damage control. One flaw from this however, will be an increase in spending from these oil companies; spending that may trickle down to us with increased oil prices. As much of a "flaw" as this may be, I would rather pay a small percentage more for natural gas than have a sink that produces flammable water. My favorite part of this article, very similar to my last blog, is the fact that large, wealthy corporations are utilizing their resources for the benefit of society. To have an environmental "hippie" group work hand in hand with "big money" oil industries is simply awesome. We need more corporations to follow suit in positive communal efforts in order to kick start a new era where companies more about us, and less about the money we give them in exchange for their services. Below is the link to the article to read more on the topic. I have also included a youtube link to a video that shows the consequences of fracking, showing how a woman is able to light the water from her sink on fire.
http://www.csmonitor.com/Environment/Energy-Voices/2013/0321/Energy-firms-environmentalists-agree-on-fracking-standards?nav=92-csm_category-leadStory
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LBjSXWQRV8
This article is indeed interesting. Back where I come from, the oil rigs is a big job to have because of course it’s very good money. Not only that, but our water system was not very good to start out with! It’s a good feeling to know that the oil companies are trying to resolve these hazardous issues that are affecting our homes every year.
ReplyDeleteVery interesting topic, I was hanging out with some friends the other day and we met an engineer/geologist that works in the oil fields and fracks for a living. The topic came of the increased number of earth quakes in south Texas in recent times. Growing up here, south Texas would experience a minor earthquake about once a decade. Since the fracking has started we have seen a huge increase in frequency. In the past year there have been about 5 earthquakes or tremors. According to this guy it is without a doubt caused by the fracking. During our conversation we spoke about the danger to the water supply. He stated that precautions are taken and until he started experiencing the tremors in south Texas he was sure of the safety. He is now rethinking his stance. I’m not sure about the location of the fracking in comparison to the Edwards aquifer but considering the amount of people that the aquifer supplies with drinking water the situation seems a bit scary. Taking this into account can we really depend on the oil companies to do the right thing and even more so, can we depend on our government to not be bought or influenced by the oil companies? I think that history tells us that we may have something substantial to worry about. I’m curious to see what the future will hold in regards to such matters and what price will have to be paid for the decisions we make today.
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