The Cool Down
Scientist calls out concerning misinformation about natural gas: 'A big red fla…
An environmental scientist clears up some confusion about natural gas (which is mostly methane) in response to a pro-methane post.
37
648
54
4k
Environmental Scientist Debunks Methane as 'Clean' Climate Solution, Citing Extensive Harms
An environmental scientist and former industry insider, Calvin, has publicly challenged the narrative that methane, often referred to as "natural gas," serves as a viable climate solution. In a recent video, Calvin, who has a graduate degree researching fracking impacts in Appalachia and experience with a major methane producer, detailed the extensive environmental damage associated with its extraction and infrastructure. He stated, "Methane extraction generates large volumes of wastewater and solid waste that contains toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and radioactive materials." He further explained that this waste frequently contaminates groundwater and surface waters, a finding he has personally researched in Appalachia. Calvin emphasized that methane is a significantly more potent greenhouse gas than CO2, with leaks occurring throughout the entire extraction and delivery process. He also highlighted the ecological toll, including "habitat fragmentation, air quality degradation, and long-term soil damage" due to the creation of new right-of-ways for pipelines. Concluding his address, Calvin asserted that promoting methane as an environmental solution ignores these broader impacts and the predatory practices often employed against rural, low-income communities where drilling predominantly occurs, urging a shift in conversation to combat climate misinformation.
