China Diesel Spill Reaches Yellow River

A diesel oil spill has reached the Yellow River in Henan Province, China. The river supplies water for millions of people. Local government’s are taking emergency measures to make sure the water is still safe for drinking.

The leak is from a pipeline owned by China National Petroleum Corporation.

Shale Gas Drilling near NYC’s Watershed

The EPA says shale gas drilling in New York City’s watershed could threaten the city’s drinking water. The basin provides water for 9 million people.

State officials say the Marcellus Shale formation could contain enough natural gas to satisfy U.S. demand for more than a decade.

However, questions have been raised about the chemicals used in the process of hydraulic fracturing. Cases have been reported across the country of contaminated drinking water near natural gas extraction sites. The EPA is asking for further analysis.

What is hydraulic fracturing?

Hydraulic fracturing is the process in which natural gas is extracted. By injecting a fluid into the rock, the gas is able to move freely and brought to the surface. Read more at the EPA.