In 3–5 sentences, relate the impact of the industrial use of water for hydraulic fracturing (fracking) with the availability and quality of water.
1 answer
The industrial use of water for hydraulic fracturing, commonly referred to as fracking, has had a significant impact on the availability and quality of water in affected areas. The process requires massive amounts of water, leading to water scarcity and competition for resources. Additionally, the chemicals used in fracking can contaminate groundwater sources, potentially making them unsafe for consumption. These issues have sparked ongoing debates about the environmental and health implications of fracking.