The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has granted a controversial permit for a toxic fracking wastewater disposal well known as Sedat 4A in Plum Borough, Pennsylvania, despite concerns from local residents. Critics feared that leaks from the well could contaminate nearby wells and groundwater. This decision highlights a growing issue in Pennsylvania, where historically, fracking waste was transported to Ohio for disposal in injection wells. However, due to increased safety scrutiny in Ohio, Pennsylvania's oil and gas companies are seeking alternative options for disposing of their toxic wastewater.
During the fracking process, large volumes of water and chemicals are injected into a well to extract gas from the Marcellus Shale. This process results in produced water that contains high levels of hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and salt, making it environmentally hazardous. While some of this water can be recycled for future fracking, eventually it becomes unusable and must be disposed of. One solution has been to repurpose old, conventional gas wells into injection wells, but this practice raises concerns about the integrity and suitability of these wells for long-term toxic waste disposal. Despite opposition from environmentalists and local residents, the EPA's decision to approve the Sedat 4A permit paves the way for its operation as the 15th injection well in Pennsylvania, pending approval from other regulatory bodies and potential legal challenges.
https://www.post-gazette.com/business/powersource/2023/08/07/fayette-county-epa-region-injection-well-g2-stem-llc/stories/202307280103
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This is really detrimental to the lives of the communities living there. The EPA should make a review
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The EPA is really putting lives at risk with such a move
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The EPA's approval of the Sedat 4A fracking disposal well in Pennsylvania, despite local concerns, underscores the complex challenges of managing toxic wastewater from fracking. Balancing the need for disposal with environmental and community safety is crucial. It highlights the urgency of exploring sustainable alternatives and stricter regulations to ensure the protection of groundwater and public health. A contentious issue that emphasizes the ongoing debate over fracking's environmental impacts. 🌊🛢️🏞️ #FrackingWaste #EnvironmentalProtection
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A trusted agency on climate matters should be put into scope to ensure such reckless decisions are countered