There are currently 225 active wells across 30 well pads in Allegheny County, as reported by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and analyzed by Fractracker Alliance. Last year, the Allegheny County Board of Health set up a committee to evaluate the effects of fracking on public health.
Dr. Graham Snyder, a member of the committee, highlighted that fracking releases toxic compounds that are linked to health problems. The committee’s goal is to suggest changes to improve community health, emphasizing the importance of effective recommendations that can genuinely make a difference.
Committee chair Laura Dagley, a nurse and advocate for social responsibility, noted that they’re studying harmful substances linked to fracking, such as benzene and volatile organic compounds. They’re also using an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) tool to assess air quality and potential health benefits.
Dagley mentioned an analysis looking into the effects of adding or removing well pads in the area, focusing on outcomes like hospital visits and respiratory issues. However, details from this analysis have not yet been made public.
At a recent meeting, Dr. Margaret Larkins-Pettigrew from Drexel University raised concerns about the financial toll of health issues connected to fracking. She stressed the need to understand how these health impacts could lead to increased healthcare costs for families.
The committee’s recommendations could lead to significant policy changes. For instance, environmental advocates suggest that Allegheny County could close air pollution control loopholes that currently allow gas companies to bypass necessary air quality permits.
As these discussions continue, public sentiment appears to be growing against the potential health risks of fracking, with increased awareness on social media platforms driving community engagement. The committee aims to present their findings and recommendations soon, paving the way for crucial decisions by the county council that could affect residents’ health and well-being.
For more information on the health risks associated with fracking, you can refer to The Allegheny Front.
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air pollution,fracking,natural gas
