What is a key environmental risk associated with natural gas extraction via fracking?

• A. Significant increase in hydroelectric capacity.
• B. Increased soil fertility.
• C. Water contamination and methane leaks.
• D. No environmental risk.

Answer: (C)

Fracking introduces fluids under high pressure to crack rock and release natural gas, which creates the main environmental risk: water contamination and methane leaks. Fluids used in the process, along with salts and additives, can migrate into groundwater if well casings or surface containment fail, or if spills occur during handling and transport. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, can escape from the well and through distribution systems, contributing to air pollution and climate impacts. These issues are the core environmental concerns associated with fracking.

The other options don’t fit because fracking isn’t aimed at increasing hydroelectric capacity, it isn’t about boosting soil fertility, and saying there’s no environmental risk ignores well-documented concerns about water contamination and methane emissions.