Fracking

The process of fracking is a fairly new process that has caused controversial uproar among Americans. Fracking is essentially drilling into the shale and then harnessing the natural gas that is released. Recently many natural gas companies have started fracking all across the United States in order to obtain this valuable resource. The nation's massive shale and tight gas reservoirs are spread across the Northeast; in the upper Midwest; under Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Arkansas; and north into the Rocky Mountain region.  

            Natural gas and fracking has supplied many jobs for big corporations helping to bolster the economy. It also is another alternative to help ease America off of its dependence on foreign oil. Because of the points above, natural gas is becoming increasingly popular and forcing some coal companies out of business completely. Many consumers believe that natural gas is much cleaner and safer than coal and oil, but this is not the case. Although it produces half the carbon emissions that coal does, it releases many greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The increase in fracking is definitely contributing to the current global warming situation and is also causing health hazards. Many companies drill into the shale that is near citizens homes. This infects their air and water with pollutants such as methane. The methane is so strong in certain water that you can light the water on fire. Another major problem is that the drillers of this oil and natural gas are not being required to test for these problems or to even fix them. Many are outraged and want stricter regulations on these drillers.