GASLAND - Admission/Application Essay Example

Gasland Introduction Gasland is a documentary film that explores the oil industry in the United s. It talks about how oil companies are buying up land from farmers to conduct oil exploration. The impact of this gas mining is negative to the residents. The film deals with a method of oil extraction called hydraulic fracturing. This method is commonly referred to as “fracking”. The process involves pumping large quantities of water into the ground. The amount of water pumped can reach millions of gallons.

This water pressure is what pushes the gas to the surface. Chemicals and sand are also pumped in to enhance the pressure.Discussion The film shows several disadvantages of the fracking process. The biggest concern is the contamination of the water table due to leakage. People’s drinking water comes into contact with the chemicals, making it unfit for consumption. Gas may also contaminate the water. In one town, people report that their water is flammable. Contamination is not caused by leakage alone.

The pressure may cause changes in the ground. The ground becomes unstable. In one farm, gas is seeping out of the ground. The disposal of the waste water after the extraction process is also another issue. Large pools of water are left on the surface. The chemicals in this water are hazardous to peoples’ health. The chemicals can burn people and animals. The process of separating the gas from the water is a problem. The process of evaporating the water releases toxic chemicals into the air.

In addition, these toxic chemicals can travel for long distances. The chemical fumes affect peoples’ health negatively and also destroy the ozone layer.Conclusion The documentary film talks to people on the ground and reveals the problems they are facing due to gas mining. The general opinion of the film is negative about the gas companies. It appeals for changes in gas exploration techniques to avoid harmful outcomes. Works CitedGasland. Dir. Josh Fox. Independent Pictures. 2010.