task 2

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Nov 24, 2024

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Shale Gas as an Energy Source for the UK: A Controversial Debate Name of Student : Meshari M A Alshatti NCUK Student ID : IM-22-1017 Course Reading into writing Assessment - writing

Task 2 Shale Gas as an Energy Source for the UK: A Controversial Debate Introduction In the United States, shale gas, an unconventional natural gas, has been extensively extracted through fracking, also known as hydraulic fracturing. Energy security and job opportunities have been created due to their implementation. The method is exceptionally dubious because of its possible effects on the climate and general well-being. Fracking, according to the Centre for Protection for Rural England (CPRE), puts the UK's legal obligation to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in jeopardy. This essay aims to critically assess whether shale gas should be developed as an energy source for the UK, considering the divergent viewpoints regarding its effects on public health and environmental sustainability. Environmental Impacts The potential environmental effects of fracking to extract shale gas are emphasized in the first text. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is discussed during the drilling and extraction. This contribution to climate change seriously endangers the UK's commitment to a zero-carbon future. In addition, the risks that contamination of water sources poses to ecosystems and human health are discussed in LSE's (2022) analysis. According to LSE (2022), the environmental impact of shale gas extraction through fracking. It explains that methane leakage occurs both during the transportation and storage of shale gas and during the drilling and extraction processes. Over 20 years, methane is thought to have a much higher potential for global warming than carbon dioxide, thereby accelerating climate change. Economic Benefits The economic benefits of shale gas development are cited by proponents, even though environmental concerns are prevalent. The employment opportunities provided by the industry are emphasized by Heimer and Davidson (2019). According to the US experience, fracking can boost employment and economic expansion. Considering the need for energy security and economic stability, this aspect should be addressed. Developing the financial advantages of shale gas

improvement, Heimer and Davidson (2019) give extra knowledge into the possible positive effects on work and monetary development. It demonstrates that shale gas can be extracted through fracking, creating new jobs in various fields, such as drilling, infrastructure development, and support services. The shale gas industry's expansion in the United States has demonstrated its capacity to create job opportunities, particularly in regions with substantial shale gas reserves. Public Health Concerns IPAA (1970) gives experiences into the potential general well-being suggestions related to deep earth drilling. It makes mention of the air pollution brought on by the release of hazardous air pollutants and volatile organic compounds during the extraction process. The health of the respiratory system is harmed by these pollutants, which also put communities in danger. The extraction sites may result in disturbances and noise pollution, affecting the well-being of nearby residents. IPAA (1970) sheds light on additional aspects that can affect communities' well-being near extraction sites, expanding on the public health concerns associated with fracking. The release of hazardous air pollutants and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during fracking is a major cause for concern. The stages of drilling, well completion, and equipment operation may all result in these emissions. VOCs like benzene, toluene, and ethylbenzene have been found in the air near fracking sites, as highlighted in Text 3. Delayed openness to these contaminations can negatively affect respiratory well-being, possibly prompting respiratory sicknesses, the fuel of asthma, and other respiratory diseases among the populace near deep earth drilling activities. The extraction cycle, including large equipment and hardware activity, can add to clamor contamination. According to IPAA (1970), the continuous noise from drilling activities and truck movements may disturb the peace of the area around them. Stress, disturbed sleep, and other negative health effects can result from prolonged exposure to high noise levels, affecting nearby residents' overall well-being and quality of life. Alternative Energy Sources

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It is essential to investigate alternative energy sources considering the commitment to a future without carbon emissions. LSE (2022) and IPAA (1970) argue against shale gas development and emphasize the importance of concentrating on alternatives for renewable energy. To meet the UK's energy needs while reducing environmental harm and reliance on fossil fuels, these texts call for investing in wind, solar, and other renewable energy sources. Developing the contentions for elective energy sources, LSE (2022) and IPAA (1970) support prioritizing environmentally friendly power choices over shale gas improvement. They emphasize switching to low-carbon, sustainable energy sources to fulfill the UK's commitment to a zero-carbon future. The environmental dangers of shale gas extraction through fracking, such as methane emissions, water contamination, and induced seismic activity, are emphasized in LSE (2022). On the other hand, renewable energy sources like wind and solar power offer significant advantages. Because they do not produce emissions of greenhouse gases during operation, these sources are regarded as renewable and clean. The UK can contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change and reduce its carbon footprint by investing in wind and solar energy. Renewable energy technologies have made significant advancements in recent years, making them more effective and less expensive. The significance of utilizing these advancements to develop a sustainable energy system is emphasized in IPAA (1970). Particularly, wind and solar power have improved in affordability and scalability, making them a viable alternative to fossil fuels. It's also important to think about the possibility of job creation and economic expansion in the renewable energy sector, which has the potential to contribute to an economy that is long-lasting and resilient. Notwithstanding wind and sun-based energy, LSE (2022) and IPAA (1970) propose investigating other reasonable energy sources. Tidal and geothermal energy technologies, for example, have the potential to supply a constant and dependable power source. Diversifying the energy mix, decreasing reliance on fossil fuels, and contributing to a more resilient and decentralized energy system are all possible outcomes of these alternatives.

Synthesis and Conclusion When the information in the three texts is examined, it becomes clear that the UK faces a complicated problem with shale gas extraction through fracking. It provides energy security and economic benefits on the one hand. On the other hand, it raises questions regarding public health and environmental sustainability. A balanced approach is required to address this issue effectively. The UK government should prioritize energy efficiency measures and investments in renewable energy sources. The nation can gradually phase out shale gas extraction and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels by moving toward a greener energy portfolio. Stricter guidelines and checking ought to be carried out to relieve the natural and general well-being gambles related to deep earth drilling. This incorporates strong measures to limit methane emanations, safeguard water sources, and guarantee the prosperity of networks near extraction destinations. The UK's development of shale gas as an energy source is a hotly debated topic. While shale gas has economic advantages, it can negatively affect public health and the environment. As the UK plans to accomplish a zero-carbon future, it is significant to focus on environmentally friendly power sources while executing severe guidelines for further shale gas investigation. The UK has the potential to pave the way for energy systems that are long-lasting and resilient by striking a balance between economic considerations and environmental responsibility.

References LSE. (2022). What is shale gas, how is it extracted through fracking, and what are fracking’s impacts? Grantham Research Institute on climate change and the environment. https://www.lse.ac.uk/granthaminstitute/explainers/what-is-shale-gas-how-is-it-extracted- through-fracking-and-what-are-frackings-impacts/#:~:text=Hydraulic%20fracturing%20– %20commonly%20known%20as,distributed%20horizontally%20rather%20than %20vertically. Heimer, A.C., MA and Davidson, T., AM (2019) 'Fracking' in Longe, J.L., ed., The Gale Encyclopedia of Environmental Health, 2nd ed., vol. 1, Farmington Hills, MI: Gale, 401- 404 IPAA. (1970, January 27). Hydraulic fracturing . Independent Petroleum Association of America. https://www.ipaa.org/fracking/

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