What are the main environmental impacts of hydraulic fracturing (fracking)?

Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, can have several environmental impacts, including groundwater contamination from the chemicals used in the process, increased seismic activity or earthquakes, and large water usage that can deplete local water resources. Fracking also leads to the release of methane, a potent greenhouse gas, during extraction. Additionally, the process can cause habitat disruption, noise pollution, and health risks to nearby communities due to the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other pollutants.