Activity 4.2.1 – Applying My Environmental Policy Frameworks - Vivianna Vando

 

Problem Statement :

Hydraulic fracturing, or hydrofracking, is a technique used to extract natural gas and oil from deep shale rock formations. While it has been around for years, technological advancements have made it possible to tap into energy sources previously considered inaccessible. The process involves injecting a mix of water, sand, and chemicals thousands of feet underground to break open the shale and release the trapped gas. According to the U.S. Energy Information Agency (EIA), the United States has an estimated 482 trillion cubic feet of recoverable shale gas. At current consumption rates, this supply could last about two decades. Key drilling sites are located in New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia. Hydrofracking has contributed to a significant increase in natural gas production, becoming the country’s primary energy source and the second-largest overall energy contributor (Cohen, 2014).

However, while hydrofracking has driven economic growth and energy independence, it comes with serious risks. One of the primary concerns is the proximity of shale gas operations to drinking water sources. Fracking fluids often contain harmful chemicals like benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene, which can pose health risks, including cancer. Proper disposal of wastewater is critical to prevent contamination of drinking water supplies. Additionally, while some fracking water is recycled, the process generates large amounts of waste, raising environmental concerns for communities near drilling sites (Cohen, 2014).

Despite these risks, natural gas from hydrofracking offers a cleaner alternative to other fossil fuels. It burns more efficiently, producing fewer pollutants than coal or oil, thanks to its simpler chemical structure. As a nation heavily reliant on fossil fuels, transitioning to natural gas has been an important step toward a more sustainable energy system (Cohen, 2014).


Identity Frame :

The way we view ourselves in relation to nature can influence how we perceive hydrofracking. If we see ourselves as caretakers of the environment, the benefits of cleaner energy may motivate us to support fracking while also demanding stricter environmental protections. A clean and healthy environment often inspires people to take better care of both nature and themselves, creating a cycle of mutual benefit.

Characterization Frame :

How we perceive nature—whether as a refuge, a resource, or something else—shapes our attitudes toward hydrofracking. For instance, those who see nature as a sanctuary may be particularly concerned about the environmental impacts of fracking, such as wildlife disruptions, contaminated water, and degraded landscapes. When nature feels less vibrant and more polluted, it can diminish our connection to it, leading to feelings of helplessness about the damage being done.

Context and Frames :

Our surroundings and experiences shape how we interpret conflicts like hydrofracking. For people living near drilling sites, the firsthand effects—both positive, like economic benefits, and negative, like environmental harm—strongly influence their perspectives. Conflicts can arise when one group prioritizes fossil fuels while another supports natural gas, with each side’s personal experiences and values framing their stance.

Context and Identity Frame :

This perspective looks at how differing opinions in a conflict shape our self-perception. For example, someone initially opposed to fracking might reconsider if they recognize that their biases are rooted in tradition or a fear of change. Understanding that both fossil fuels and natural gas have pros and cons can encourage more open-minded discussions about energy solutions.

Characterization and Frames :

Finally, the way we view others' stances on energy sources can also create divisions. Supporters of fracking may see fossil fuel advocates as clinging to outdated, dirtier energy, while those favoring fossil fuels might perceive fracking proponents as dismissive of its environmental risks. These characterizations can deepen the divide, making it harder to find common ground.

References

Cohen, S., et al. (2014). Why is Hydrofracking Contentious?

Vando, V. ( 2024, December 05 ). Activity 4.2 Environmental Policy Frameworks   https://viviannavando.blogspot.com/2024/12/activity-42-environmental-policy.html 

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