Fracking operation
Citing concerns over health risks, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced on Wednesday that his administration would ban hydraulic fracturing – or fracking – in New York state.
Fracking is the highly controversial method of injecting pressurized water mixed with chemicals and sand deep within the earth to extract reserves of natural gas trapped in rock. Some worry that gas and chemicals can seep into drinking water and groundwater, threatening local populations and the environment.
Cuomo’s decision followed the release of a long-awaited study by state health officials on fracking’s impact on public health. The study found “significant public health risks” associated with fracking.