Activity 4.2.1 Applying your environmental policy frameworks (
Hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking,” is extracting natural gas and oil from underground shale formations. The process involves injecting high-pressure water, sand, and chemical fluids into rock layers to release trapped hydrocarbons. While hydrofracking has unlocked vast energy resources and created economic opportunities, it remains highly contentious. Critics cite environmental and health risks, such as groundwater contamination, methane leaks, and induced seismic activity. Proponents, however, argue it promotes energy independence and economic growth. According to Cohen, Wannemacher, and Weisbecker (2014), much of the conflict stems not only from differing interpretations of science but also from competing values, interests, and political structures that shape public response. Fracking illustrates how deeply environmental policy debates are influenced by identity, trust, risk perception, power dynamics, and economic framing. For many rural communities like Pennsylvania or upstate Ne...