Text II The Environmental Consequences of Natural Resource Extraction The environmental impact of society’s dependence on natural resources is undeniable, though with these resourc

Text II

The Environmental Consequences
of Natural Resource Extraction

The environmental impact of society’s dependence on natural resources is undeniable, though with these resources set up as the lifeblood of modern industry, many continue to downplay the urgency of freeing ourselves from this dependence. The most compelling and visual consequence of burning carbon based fuels are the resulting CO ₂ emissions that act as greenhouse gases, the primary contributor to global warming. However, as more people study how the resources are developed, it becomes apparent that the environmental damage from these extraction processes may be as significant as the emissions.

A recent article from Scientific American demonstrates how little is known about the dangers of extracting natural gas from the earth. Even though the process had been deemed safe by the EPA, new research suggests that this may not be the case. Complicating the matter further is the fact that the chemical mixture that companies use in the extraction is considered a trade secret, and they are resistant to providing this info on the grounds of secrecy.

The technology for burning coal with fewer emissions is expensive yet feasible, but there is no account for the environmental damage done during the extraction process. Moreover, around the globe, corporations are continually exploiting indigenous regions for their resources. A report from the World Wildlife Fund details the various problems that are occurring in the Amazon region as a result of resource exploitation. It explains the various effects that oil and gas extraction can have, including deforestation, regional conflict, biodiversity loss, and soil and aquatic pollution. Selling the rights to these resources to companies can be a strong move economically for poor regions, but the long-term effects will greatly outweigh the benefits on a global scale.

The need for alternative energy supplies is urgent, and it will only serve the public to discuss the full extent of the environmental dangers that carbon based fuels pose. By not entering the dangers of extraction into the case for developing clean energy, the argument for implementing these technologies is diminished, and the needs of the environment will continue to be overshadowed by global events like the current financial crisis.

Available at: <http://common-breath.com/the-environmentalconsequences- of-natural-resource-extraction/>. Retrieved on: Jan. 10th, 2014. Adapted.

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