Summary Of Fracking's Dangers

In the issue of fracking, using water and various chemicals to extract natural gas from the ground, many people support it on the basis that it makes the United States less dependent on foreign energy supplies, however, it destroys the environment around it, which leads to people disregarding it as a risk not worth pursuing. An editorial in the Toledo blade called ”Fracking’s Dangers,” explores the relationship between fracking and the increase in earthquakes within the past few decades. The editorial at face value is rather well written although the author makes no intention of hiding their distaste for pro-fracking lobbyists, and it seemingly presents valid evidence towards the idea of fracking inducing earthquakes. The editorial doesn’t …show more content…
The editorial author states “Mounting evidence suggests that fracking is responsible for dramatic increases in earthquakes all over the country, including in Ohio” (“Fracking’s Dangers”). This quote from the editorial makes a bold claim: fracking directly causes more earthquakes to happen. Much like the editorial’s author suggested there exists evidence that points toward the influence of fracking on seismic activity. There are academic journals and trade publications that show the effects of fracking on the environment, making statements, such as “Between 2010 and 2013, the US Midwest recorded more than 100 felt quakes over a magnitude of 3 - annually. Until fracking came around, the normal average had been 21” (Nikiforuk 57). Another example that shows the link between fracking and seismic activity comes from the Cumberland Law Review which states, “scientists think the fracking fluid migrates into natural faults, causes a ‘hydraulic jack’ effect, and triggers the earthquakes” (Stephens 8). The preceding quotes show the editorial author is not attempting to fabricate information to sway public opinion, and is simply delivering facts …show more content…
The editorial serves in stark contrast to the companies and figures that were discussed in “the Merchants of Doubt”. While in the merchants of doubt they attempt to fight science with “science”, this editorial simply lays the facts bare about the issues that fracking causes. The author of the editorial even states “for now, environmental advocates have not made the case for a full ban on fracking” (Fracking’s Dangers). The author being able to admit despite the potential dangers of fracking, it has not warranted a ban on its operation. The author of this editorial made no effort to shroud the reader’s view in a veil of doubt, nor did he attempt to personally attack any of the companies that are in the fracking industry. This article is one that possesses little bias and is absolutely based on