Summary: In this article from CNN, writer Jackie Wattles informs us of the recent earthquake in Oklahoma. This seismic activity was most likely caused by disposal wells. This process of disposing the wastewater that is left unused after drilling for oil and gas deep into the ground, greatly increases the risk of earthquakes in areas such as Oklahoma. Recycling the brine mixture, like they have begun to do in Pennsylvania and Texas, could be a much less harmful procedure. Oklahoma has not yet decided what to do about this pressing issue in the long-term, but they have decided to shut down 37 drilling facilities state-wide.
Analysis: This scenario must serve as a lesson and a representation of the great risk that comes with our non-sustainable energy resources. This event could have ended much worse, and we should consider this a catalyst to induce a new global energy policy and really start to research and utilize alternative energy sources.
Synthesis: This particular event reflects countless times that energy-based projects and waste products have caused notable damage to communities and the environment.
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