Natural gas is often trapped in pockets deep within shale. Energy companies use a process called fracking to get to the more fulfilling pockets that are deeper within the earth's crust. Fracking is a term coined from the fact that this drilling process fractures the shale and releases the gas for retrieval. Hydro meaning water, explains the method a bit further. Millions of gallons of water, chemicals, as well as sand are inserted under pressurization causing the rock to give way and crack. The gas then finds its way back up the cracks or fractures to the surface where it is harvested for clean energy usage. This is a great process, and seemingly harmless.
This is not a new process. Hydrofracking has been around for many years. What has recently changed is the abundant use of this procedure. Because the sites of this drilling are getting closer to civilization, people in the surrounding areas are claiming that they are being subjected to contaminated water, as the chemicals that are used leach into their underground water sources.
Smaller companies like Langley Energy are not part of a new EPA, (Environmental Protection Agency), investigation. The accusations are serious enough though that one has been instituted. The industry biggies like Key Energy Services, Halliburton and seven others are being targeted in this inquiry.
They have been instructed to turn over all information in regards to their chemical usage in this process. It would seem that if Hydrofracking is causing toxic water, than natural gas becomes not such a viable option for clean energy. If it harms the environment in any way, it is not an exemplary clean energy source.
Halliburton, according to a report on November 9th, 2010 seems to be the only hold out so far. All other companies have complied. This is the same company that was involved in the scandal in the war in Iraq because of ties to the U.S. Vice-President Dick Cheney.
While it may not be the process that is causing problems, but the chemicals, it is imperative that the EPA be allowed to conduct their investigation and deliver their report which is due next year.
If our water is truly being contaminated by this procedure, or the chemicals used in it something has to be changed regardless of the cost to the business.
One reported cited that citizens actually had flammable gases coming from the spigots at their homes after the Hydrofracking process began. We cannot live without water; We can however live without companies who have no regard for a clean environment.
Water is our lifeblood. Halliburton's past scandal is not concrete proof of wrong doing, however if they have nothing to hide then why are they holding out to the point of having a subpoena issued to get the information that the investigative committee is seeking?
They need to understand that to change the world we have to do things differently. Taking consideration for the environment most be the foremost agenda of any business, but especially for one in the energy industry.
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For More Information About Natural Gas Please Visit:
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