An oil and gas company plans to expand its fracking area. The company requests a drilling permit from the local government. Before members of the local government vote to approve or deny the company’s request, they ask a team of geologists to investigate the long-term effects of fracking. The team’s findings are highlighted in the table. Sphere Observations Potential Risk Lithosphere Soil samples reveal high levels of salinity in addition to an excess of heavy metals like mercury and lead. Contaminated soil cannot support healthy plant life; limits food production. Atmosphere High levels of methane gas detected. Methane is a main greenhouse gas which significantly contributes to global warming. Hydrosphere Millions of gallons of water is needed to frack one well. Wastewater spills and other runoff contain toxic chemicals. Freshwater supplies for residents will be reduced, and drinking water may be contaminated. Which action will members of local government most likely take based on the information presented in the table? (1 point) Responses They will deny the company’s drilling permit. Fracking reduces the soil, air, and water quality of an area. They will deny the company’s drilling permit. Fracking reduces the soil, air, and water quality of an area. They will deny the company’s drilling permit. Fracking reduces the probability of air and water pollution. They will deny the company’s drilling permit. Fracking reduces the probability of air and water pollution. They will approve the company’s drilling permit. Fracking does not pose any threat to the biosphere. They will approve the company’s drilling permit. Fracking does not pose any threat to the biosphere. They will approve the company’s drilling permit. Fracking promotes an environment’s overall health and well-being

Answer 1

Based on the information presented in the table, the members of the local government will most likely take the action to deny the company’s drilling permit. The observations highlight significant risks associated with fracking, including contamination of soil and water, the reduction of freshwater supplies, and the contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. These concerns indicate that fracking would negatively impact the soil, air, and water quality of the area, leading to a likely decision against the permit.

Therefore, the appropriate response is:

They will deny the company’s drilling permit. Fracking reduces the soil, air, and water quality of an area.