The term ‘fracking’ is derived from hydraulic fracturing. It refers to a process to extract gas and oil from deep underground. First, high-pressure fluid is injected into rock formations which fractures the rock, releasing trapped hydrocarbons (e.g oil and gas). While fracking has increased domestic energy production in the U.S., it has raised environmental and health concerns due to water contamination, air pollution, and the large volumes of wastewater generated by the process.
Origin of the term and application
The Greek word “hudraulikos” from a combination of hydro meaning “water” + “aulos” meaning a “pipe” clearly articulates the process known as fracking.
While fracking has certainly revolutionized the energy industry in its attempts to squeeze the remaining oil and gas reserves from the Earth, environmentalists increasingly highlight the risks to the environment and human health. Fracking raises concerns about the release of greenhouse gasses such as methane into the environment and necessitates close monitoring and regulation.
