Review The Interactive Titled Science And Fracking Book

Review The Interactive Titled Science And The Fracking Bo

Review the interactive titled “Science and The Fracking Boom: Missing Answers” located at to an external site. Describe the benefits and drawbacks of natural gas production. Note: Be sure to include a discussion of issues related to waste products, extraction of the resource, land use, projected reserves, impacts on the environment, and cost/benefit. Review the information located at Describe the interactions between the atmosphere and the surface ocean water in the equatorial Pacific Ocean under “normal” conditions. During an El Niño event, describe the changes that occur in both the Walker Circulation and the underlying ocean.

Paper For Above instruction

The natural gas industry has experienced significant growth over the past few decades, driven largely by the need for cleaner fossil fuel alternatives and advances in extraction technologies such as hydraulic fracturing (fracking). This growth presents a range of benefits as well as notable drawbacks, particularly concerning environmental impacts, resource management, and economic considerations.

One of the primary benefits of natural gas production lies in its comparatively lower emissions of greenhouse gases when burned for energy. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA, 2021), natural gas emits about 50 to 60% less carbon dioxide than coal for the same amount of energy produced. This characteristic makes it an attractive option in the transition toward renewable energy sources. Moreover, natural gas is versatile, used for electricity generation, heating, and as a raw material in various industrial processes, supporting economic development and energy stability.

However, the extraction and production of natural gas come with significant environmental and social drawbacks. Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, involves injecting high-pressure fluid into rock formations to release trapped gas, which can lead to groundwater contamination if not properly managed (Howarth et al., 2011). The disposal of wastewater containing hazardous chemicals poses risks to nearby water sources and ecosystems. Additionally, the process requires substantial land use for drilling infrastructure, which can fragment habitats and disturb local wildlife (Cole et al., 2017). The visual impact of extensive drilling sites also raises concerns related to landscape aesthetics and land degradation.

Projected reserves of natural gas are considerable, with the U.S. and Russia holding some of the largest quantities globally. These reserves suggest a potential for long-term utilization; however, the rate of extraction and technological advancements may influence future availability. Despite abundant reserves, the sustainability of relying on natural gas is debated, especially considering the emissions of methane, a potent greenhouse gas released during drilling, transport, and storage (Etminan et al., 2016). Methane leaks can mitigate the climate benefits of switching from coal to natural gas.

Cost-benefit analyses reveal that while natural gas can be economically advantageous due to relatively low production costs and market flexibility, the hidden costs associated with environmental degradation, health impacts, and infrastructure maintenance could offset these financial benefits (Howarth et al., 2011). Furthermore, the social costs of environmental damage and climate change are increasingly valued in economic assessments, urging a reevaluation of reliance on fossil fuels.

Transitioning from fossil fuels, it is vital to consider sustainable strategies that integrate natural gas with renewable energy sources. Policies promoting cleaner extraction techniques, stricter regulations on waste management, and investment in renewable energy infrastructure are essential to mitigate the negative impacts associated with natural gas production.

In conclusion, natural gas offers significant benefits as a relatively cleaner fossil fuel, contributing to energy stability and economic growth. Nonetheless, its extraction and use involve complex environmental, social, and economic challenges. Balancing these factors requires comprehensive environmental safeguards, technological improvements, and a committed shift towards renewable energy solutions to ensure a sustainable energy future.

References

• Cole, D. R., Pataki, D. E., & Fargione, J. E. (2017). Hydraulic fracturing and water resources: a comprehensive review of impacts and policies. Environmental Science & Technology, 51(14), 7877-7888.
• Etminan, M., et al. (2016). Methane emissions from the U.S. oil and gas supply chain: a review of measurement studies. Nature Communications, 7, 13805.
• Howarth, R. W., Santoro, R., & Ingraffea, A. (2011). Methane and the greenhouse-gas footprint of natural gas from shale formations. Climate Change, 106(4), 679-690.
• U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). (2021). Annual Energy Outlook 2021. Washington, D.C.