The Human Touch: 5 Activities That Trigger Earthquakes

According to SAEDNEWS, Earthquakes are a common phenomenon—one that often reminds us how dynamic and ever-changing our planet is. Believe it or not, the Earth experiences around 55 earthquakes every day, which amounts to approximately 20,000 a year! However, most of these earthquakes are minor, with only about 16 classified as major seismic events. While the Earth’s tectonic plates largely contribute to these natural shakes, human activities have also been known to set the stage for seismic surprises.

Over the last 150 years, geophysicists have cataloged over 730 earthquakes attributed to human intervention. From mining to geothermal energy production, several activities have been shown to disturb the Earth’s natural equilibrium, leading to seismic events that can sometimes have devastating consequences. Let’s delve into five of these surprising human activities that can cause earthquakes.

1. Mining: Digging Deep and Causing Quakes

Mining is the leading culprit of induced seismic activity, accounting for roughly 37% of all man-made earthquakes. As highways and extractive operations circumvent the Earth's crust for oil, gold, and other resources, instability arises. A devastating example is the 1989 Newcastle earthquake in Australia, triggered by extensive coal mining, killing 13 people and costing billions in damage. When miners excavate large areas, they disrupt the geological stability, potentially causing abrupt ground movements.

2. Fracking: The Double-Edged Sword

Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, involves high-pressure streams that fracture rock to release oil and gas. While this technique has revolutionized energy production since the 21st century, it can also trigger microearthquakes. Though these quakes are usually minor, the process of water disposal post-fracking is a notable concern. In states like Oklahoma, some larger quakes have been linked to improper disposal of brackish water underground.

3. Wastewater Disposal: A Hidden Hazard

The disposal of wastewater generated from fracking often involves injecting it deep into underground wells. While it's a necessary process for managing contaminated water, it can be associated with more significant seismic activity. Research from Arizona State University indicated that seismic tremors could persist for years following wastewater injection due to pressure build-up in the rocks. One such incident, the Pawnee earthquake in 2016, rattled Oklahoma with a magnitude of 5.8.

4. Dam Construction: Water Pressure and Earthquakes

Dams account for about 23% of human-induced earthquakes. The immense water pressure in reservoirs can infiltrate microcracks in the ground, effectively lubricating fault lines and prompting tectonic movement. Historical examples include the Hoover Dam, which caused numerous tremors, and the 7.9-magnitude earthquake linked to the Zingingpu Reservoir in China. Such seismic events serve as stark reminders of how our infrastructure projects can impact geological stability.

5. Geothermal Energy Production: Caution from the Heat Below

While geothermal energy provides a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels, the extraction process isn't without risks. Stripping steam and water from beneath the Earth can destabilize surrounding rocks, leading to seismic activity. A notable example occurred in Pohang, South Korea, in 2017, where a magnitude 5.5 earthquake resulted from geothermal drilling operations, prompting storage evacuations for thousands.

The Final Word: Mindful Interventions

In our quest for energy, materials, and infrastructure, it's crucial to remain mindful of our planet's susceptibility to seismic changes. While natural tectonic movements will always be present, our activities can exacerbate these events. Understanding and mitigating the risks associated with mining, fracking, wastewater disposal, dam construction, and geothermal energy extraction will be vital for protecting communities around the world. As we innovate and develop, let's do so with an awareness of our impacts on Earth's delicate equilibrium.