Long before oil became the primary fuel source for automobiles and aircrafts, it was used in a variety of ways such as an illuminant for medicine, a light source for lanterns, and a lubricant for wheels and tools (Wall). However, at that time, oil had not been discovered in the quantity and state that it exists today. In August of 1859, everything changed with the first recorded drilling of oil at its source (Wall). From there, the industry exploded and became quite lucrative throughout the late 1800s and 1900s (Wall). Today, the United States has the 10th largest oil reserve in the world and consumes 1.85 billion barrels of oil a day (Wall). With such a high consumption of this precious natural resource, environmentalists stress the importance …show more content…
Affecting the most drilling operations, ground water contamination presents a threat to the the drinking water for residents of areas near drilling operations (Mearns). Because an oil well can penetrate drinking water aquifers, concerns arise that the water sources will be compromised for large areas potentially causing sickness (Mearns.) The disposal of drilling fluids, though easily handled safely, can contaminate the soil if incorrectly removed due to the high level of chemicals present (Mearns). Like oil and drilling fluids, methane gas, which can be deadly if inhaled, raises alarm due to the large levels released during fracking, a type of oil recovery (Mearns). Apart from the liquid and gas concerns, the actual drilling and pipe laying processes disrupt cities near the sites. Because drilling for oil is such an extensive operation, numerous workers must stay locally to constantly maintain the oil fields (Mearns). Though businesses may welcome the influx of customers, a newly retired couple, for example, may not be so inviting. Environmental issues for oil drilling foster warranted concern; however, groups in favor of the “black gold” argue important ideas that continue the