In 3–5 sentences, relate the impact of the industrial use of water for hydraulic fracturing (fracking) with the availability and quality of water. (4 points)
1 answer
The industrial use of water for hydraulic fracturing, also known as fracking, has a significant impact on the availability and quality of water sources. Fracking requires large amounts of water, often sourced from local rivers, lakes, and groundwater, leading to water scarcity in already stressed areas. Additionally, the chemicals used in the fracking process can contaminate water sources, posing serious risks to both human health and the environment. This can lead to long-term water quality issues, affecting communities and ecosystems for years to come.