As 2017 continues to move forward, the assault on fracking shows no signs of slowing down. Even as the United States moves toward an unprecedented state of energy independence, even as the oil and gas industry is helping to bridge the ideological gap between the United States and foreign allies, even as the industry works tirelessly to operate more efficiently and with more environmental responsibility, opponents of fracking continue to decry the act.
Duke Uncovers Information that Is Not Shocking at All
Even when the facts prove that fracking isn’t the monster it’s made out to be, there’s still venom surrounding the topic. Take for instance, last month’s study from Duke University. Professor of geochemistry and water quality in Duke’s Nicholas School of the Environment Avner Vengosh explained that his study examined 112 drinking wells in West Virginia over the course of three years.
In particular, the study “was able to measure a very wide range of chemical tracers in wells before and after fracking in West Virginia.” After extensive observation, the researchers from Duke alongside fellows from The Ohio State University, Pennsylvania State University and the French Geological Survey concluded, “we do not see an effect of fracking on the groundwater quality.”
Another in a Long Line of Studies
The results from Duke University have done little to make waves in the argument against fracking. That’s to be expected, sadly, because this is far from the first time that an extensive study has proven that fracking is safe for a community’s drinking water.
In April, a Pennsylvania judge vacated an anti-fracking verdict because he found that the proof used to get attain million-dollar award was patently false. Months before that, the EPA itself concluded (while President Obama was in the White House, mind you) that fracking didn’t harm groundwater.
So, one more time, because it seems to bare repeating: there is zero reliable evidence that indicates fracking is a harm to groundwater.
The Ongoing Transition to Clean Energy
Okay, it’s irresponsible to suggest that fracking is a completely secure operation. There are certain aspects to the process — like the disposal of wastewater — that require special attention in order to be properly handled.
But to vilify an industry that spends millions each year on technological and environmental innovation and that’s actively battling to preserve the future of our planet seems borderline pointless.