The Student News Site of Saint Louis University

The University News

The Student News Site of Saint Louis University

The University News

The Student News Site of Saint Louis University

The University News

Drilling practices pose danger to nation’s health

I am very concerned with our government’s current, lax regulations on certain natural gas-drilling practices, especially hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. The fracking industry has repeatedly received exemptions from environmental regulations such as the Safe Drinking Water Act. This lack of regulation puts the health of nearby communities at risk. We do not yet know the effects of fracking on human health, but they are assumed to be harmful. Until research can verify either the safety or danger of fracking to human health, all possible protective measures should be in place. This means tighter regulations on the waste being produced and that full disclosure of chemicals being used is necessary.

The detrimental effects of fracking on the environment are well documented, but until recently the political will made it difficult to fund research about possible human health effects. Luckily, this is changing. A group of toxicologists from the University of Pennsylvania is currently investigating the effects of contamination from fracking on human health. While this research is a major step forward, it should have begun five years ago when fracking became a common practice. We must demand that our health and the health of our nation be taken seriously. Current fracking practices place humans and the environment at risk, and until more is known about the consequences of these practices, the government must regulate them with greater precaution. When the public’s health is at risk “better late than never” is not good enough.

Story continues below advertisement
Leave a Comment
Donate to The University News
$1410
$750
Contributed
Our Goal

Your donation will support the student journalists of Saint Louis University. Your contribution will help us cover our annual website hosting costs.

More to Discover
Donate to The University News
$1410
$750
Contributed
Our Goal

Comments (0)

All The University News Picks Reader Picks Sort: Newest

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *