G2: impact of fossil fuels Flashcards
includes methods of extraction and impact on environment
what are the different methods of extracting fossil fuels?
oil rigs - drill for oil
open cast mining - digging for coal
fracking - extracts oil and gas by pumping water into rock, forcing it to come to the surface
what are some problems of extracting fossil fuels?
fracking can cause earthquakes
subsidence is caused by empty shaft mines
creates pollution to the air, water, soil
destroys landscapes
methane in water supplies
how is groundwater polluted?
chemicals can pollute groundwater supplies, which affects plant growth. methane can be released int o tap water, for example, in America near fracking sites
how is soil polluted?
drilling releases chemicals which can wash into the soil, polluting it and making it infertile which can lead to reduced biodiversity.
