EM-Energy and the environment, page 42
Fracking is a slang term for hydraulic fracturing, which is the process of creating fractures in rocks and rock formations by injecting specialized fluid into cracks to force them to open further.
The advantages of fracking:
It allows access to more gas and oil, which are in limited supply.
Using gas and oil produces less pollution than burning coal, so it is better to extract extra supplies than rely on coal.
It reduces the need to import oil or gas from other countries.
Shale rock is a long way underground, far below the water table, so poses little threat.
Oil and gas have been drilled for many years and this is just another deep method.
Fracking will supply many jobs locally.
The disadvantages of fracking:
There is a risk of toxins from fracking entering the water table.
The mixture of chemicals used is toxic and my effect local residents.
Fracking uses a lot of water, which may reduce availability for other purposes.
Noise pollution: fracking in an area will affect the local community.
Natural areas will be destroyed when new drills are developed.
Fracturing lower levels of rock may cause additional earth tremors.
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