Which of the following is an environmental concern associated with hydraulic fracturing (fracking)?

Groundwater contamination is a significant environmental concern associated with hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. This process involves injecting high-pressure fluid into underground rock formations to release natural gas or oil. The chemicals used in the fracking fluid, along with the potential for methane and other contaminants from the fractured rock, can migrate into nearby groundwater sources, posing risks to drinking water quality. This contamination can have serious consequences for public health and local ecosystems, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and regulating fracking operations.

In contrast, increased biodiversity, urban development, and deforestation are not direct results of hydraulic fracturing. While fracking operations can lead to changes in land use and potentially impact local ecosystems, the specific and most pressing concern directly related to this technique is the risk it poses to groundwater sources. Understanding these dynamics helps illustrate the complex balance required in energy extraction practices and environmental protection.