Success: Ireland Bans Destructive and Harmful Fracking

Target: Tony McLoughlin, Fine Gael TD, Irish Parliament

Goal: Applaud Ireland’s government for passing a permanent ban on the harmful practice of fracking.

The government in Ireland has officially banned onshore fracking, stopping the destructive, harmful, and dangerous practice from impacting the health of its environment and its citizens. The nation’s senate passed the bill, which is simply awaiting the signature of President Michael D. Higgins.

Irish officials cited the destruction that fracking, also known as hydraulic fracturing, has had in the United States as a reason for banning the practice. Fracking has been proven to create man-made earthquakes, pollute drinking water, and kill animals. Ireland joins several other European nations to ban fracking, including Germany and France.

Petitions, including one published on ForceChange, urged Ireland to permanently ban fracking. It appears that politicians in the country have listened to the voice of Irish citizens and millions of others. Thank the Irish government for taking a stand against fracking and for supporting the bright future that Ireland’s environment has in store.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Deputy Mcloughlin,

Thank you for listening to the voices of your fellow citizens, as well as the voices of millions of others from around the world, and taking a stand against fracking. Fracking has been proven to harm both the environment and human health, yet so many representatives choose to ignore the scientific facts behind the practice and instead opt for the economic gains. I want to thank you for putting the cares, concerns, and health of your citizens first.

I only hope that other nations around the world will learn from the example you and your fellow officials have set. While there is still much to be done to end fracking once and for all, banning fracking in Ireland is a significant step to a healthier future for ourselves and the planet we call home.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo Credit: Gamopy