Question

an oil and gas company plan to expand its fracking area. the company requests a drilling permit from the local government. before members of the local government vote to approve or deny the companys request, they ask a team of geologists to investigate the long - term effects of fracking. the teams findings are highlighted in the table.
sphere\tobservations\tpotential risk
lithosphere\tsoil samples reveal high levels of salinity in addition to an excess of heavy metals like mercury and lead.\tcontaminated soil cannot support healthy plant life; limits food production.
atmosphere\thigh levels of methane gas detected.\tmethane is a main greenhouse gas which significantly contributes to global warming.
hydrosphere\tmillions of gallons of water is needed to frack one well. wastewater spills and other runoff contain toxic chemicals.\tfreshwater supplies for residents will be reduced, and drinking water may be contaminated.
which action will members of the local government most likely take based on the information presented in the table? use the drop - down boxes to complete the sentence.
(1 point) approve
deny
they will the companys drilling permit. fracking

Explanation:

The table shows that fracking has significant negative impacts on the lithosphere (soil contamination), atmosphere (high methane - a greenhouse gas), and hydrosphere (water supply reduction and contamination). Given these risks, local government is likely to be concerned about environmental and public - health issues.

Answer:

deny