Fracking

An independent report today has effectively given the green light to Fracking in the UK. The claim by companies like Cuadrillo Resources that Fracking is safe isn't really based on much evidence. On the other hand the dangers of Fracking have already been experienced. In Lancashire two earthquakes have been due to Fracking, this is what cause all Fracking programmes in the UK to be suspended. The USA is the first place in which Fracking has been commercially exploited. In one small town in Ohio they have recorded 14 earthquakes since Fracking began nearby. Yet Fracking carries another potential danger, the poisoning of water supplies. What happens in Fracking is that a drill is forced into the rock and then cracks the rocks around it. After this water and chemicals are forced into the cracks to loosen the gas. The water is then taken back up, but only around 50% actually returns. The rest is lost and the companies don't know where it goes. This water could very easily make it into drinking supplies, and considering it's got harmful chemicals in it, this could cause serious health problems.

Regardless of safety, we should be looking towards finding greener sources of energy. It would be better if more money was spent on green research and the building of renewable power stations, including massive wind farms in the North Sea areas.

The dangers of Fracking would suggest that it should not continue but unfortunately the oil and gas companies are very powerful and have a habit of getting their way...