The debate over fracking continues to be lively, and there’s a lot of misinformation out there.
Fracking, or ‘hydraulic fracturing’, is the injection of water, sand and chemicals at high pressure into underground rock formations, to release trapped natural gas.
Opponents are concerned about the potential consequences of fracking, particularly on ground water.
The documentary ‘Gasland’, released in 2010, showed a landowner setting fire to the water coming out of a tap in his home, suggesting that it was linked to a nearby fracking site.
In fact, the ability to ignite a flame from a tap exists naturally, even in places with no oil and gas development.
Fracking has sparked a number of protests here in Canada.
Residents of Lethbridge, Alberta were opposed to plans by Goldenkey Oil to drill fracking wells within city limits.
They should know that after extensive study, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has concluded that fracking poses little to no threat to the quality of drinking water.
Supporters and proponents of fracking point out that it means cheaper gas and less reliance on coal, which produces more emissions of carbon dioxide.
Rather than relying on alarmist rhetoric, Canadians should study the research, and realize that there’s nothing to fear.
I’m Roger Currie. Join us again next week for more thoughts on the Frontier.
For more on energy policy, visit our website www.fcpp.org.
