Human-induced earthquakes can occur in unexpected places, as seen in the case of Huizinge, a small village in the Netherlands. The 3.6 magnitude quake that shook the village in 2012 was triggered by gas extraction in the nearby Groningen gas field, one of the largest onshore gas fields in the world. This event was significant as the area typically does not experience natural earthquakes, making it the worst induced quake to hit the Netherlands to date.
Stable regions like Groningen, India’s Deccan Plateau, and Oklahoma are not typically prone to natural earthquakes due to their tectonically stable nature. However, human activities such as mining, oil and gas extraction, dam-building, and tapping into geothermal energy can set off unexpected quakes in these regions. These activities can impact the faults lying just a few kilometers below the surface, which are typically too shallow to trigger significant natural shakes. Even if these faults had slipped millions of years ago, they have since healed and built stronger bonds across these shallow fractures.
Research conducted by earthquake physicist Ylona van Dinther and her colleagues at Utrecht University in the Netherlands has shed light on the vulnerability of healing faults to human intervention. The study revealed that faults underlying the Groningen gas field become stronger after tectonic movement, increasing the area of contact between the rocks on either side. This phenomenon, known as frictional healing, occurs when faults that haven’t moved for millions of years get stuck together and strengthen over time.
In the case of stable intra-plate faults, stresses can build up if two tectonic plates attempt to move past each other but the fault between them is stuck. Eventually, the built-up stress is released when the rocks on either side of the fault slip, triggering an earthquake. While these faults are not located on major plate boundaries and are not jostled by moving plates, they can still be susceptible to other stresses that may lead to induced seismic activity.
The occurrence of induced earthquakes serves as a reminder of the complex interactions between human activities and the Earth’s geological processes. Understanding these interactions is crucial for mitigating the risks associated with induced seismic events and ensuring the safety of communities living in regions susceptible to such phenomena. The red markers on the map highlight earthquakes that are linked to human activities such as oil and gas extraction, fluid injection, and geothermal energy development. These earthquakes are scattered across typically quiet regions far from plate boundaries, showing how industrial activity can trigger shaking in areas not usually prone to earthquakes.
In a new study, researchers used computer simulations to investigate what happens when faults heal undisturbed for millions of years and then suddenly experience a disturbance like gas extraction. The stress on the faults builds up over about 35 years until it breaches the additional “frictional healing” strength. This sudden release of strength causes an induced earthquake.
While the fault becomes silent after the release of strength, the chance of another earthquake at that fault is low because it would take millions of years for the fault to rebuild the strength. However, with more than a thousand healing faults in stable regions, human activity could trigger multiple tremors over time.
These induced earthquakes can turn normally protective shallow faults into liabilities, releasing more energy at the surface and shaking the ground significantly. Infrastructure in these conventionally stable regions may not be built to withstand such tremors.
Geophysicist Daniel Faulkner of the University of Liverpool suggests that stakeholders looking to develop projects in these areas must understand the underlying faults and the risks they pose. He notes that even if companies move away from oil and gas extraction, they will still need the Earth’s surface for clean, renewable resources like geothermal energy. Some geothermal projects have been stopped due to induced seismicity, such as the earthquake in Pohang, South Korea in 2017 caused by a nearby geothermal project.
van Dinther suggests that companies should extract resources in ways that trigger slow movement along faults, rather than a fast release of pent-up strength. This could involve carefully controlling the rate and volume of fluid injected into the Earth for geothermal energy, either by starting slowly and ramping up gradually or injecting fluid cyclically.
Developers should also be aware of the potential for earthquakes and communicate this risk to others in the region. It is important to account for the effects of healing and strengthening in hazard assessments to ensure the safety of infrastructure and communities in these areas. One of the most important aspects of modern society is the role of technology in our daily lives. From smartphones to social media, technology has become an integral part of how we communicate, work, and live. But as technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, it’s important to consider the implications and effects it has on our society.
One of the biggest concerns surrounding technology is its impact on mental health. With the rise of social media and constant connectivity, many people are experiencing increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. The pressure to constantly be online and connected can lead to feelings of inadequacy and comparison, as people are bombarded with images of seemingly perfect lives on social media.
Additionally, technology has changed the way we interact with each other. While it has made communication easier and more convenient, it has also led to a decrease in face-to-face interactions. Many people now prefer to communicate through text or social media, rather than having in-person conversations. This can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, as human connection is crucial for overall well-being.
Another concern is the impact of technology on our physical health. With the rise of sedentary activities such as video gaming and binge-watching TV shows, many people are leading increasingly inactive lifestyles. This can lead to a host of health issues, including obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Additionally, the blue light emitted from screens can disrupt our sleep patterns, leading to poor quality sleep and fatigue.
Despite these concerns, technology also has the potential to greatly benefit society. It has revolutionized industries such as healthcare, education, and transportation, making services more efficient and accessible. Technology has also enabled us to connect with people from all over the world, breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of global community.
As we continue to integrate technology into our lives, it’s important to be mindful of its effects on our mental and physical health. Finding a balance between the benefits and drawbacks of technology is crucial for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle. By being aware of the impact of technology on our society, we can work towards harnessing its potential for good while mitigating its negative effects. The world is constantly changing, and with these changes come new challenges and opportunities. As we navigate through the complexities of modern life, it is essential to stay informed and adapt to the ever-evolving landscape.
One of the most significant changes in recent years has been the rapid advancement of technology. From artificial intelligence to virtual reality, the possibilities seem endless. While these advancements have the potential to revolutionize industries and improve our quality of life, they also pose new challenges.
For example, the rise of automation has raised concerns about job displacement and income inequality. As machines become more capable of performing tasks traditionally done by humans, many fear that jobs will become scarce. It is crucial for society to address these concerns and find ways to ensure that everyone has access to opportunities in the new digital economy.
Another challenge posed by technology is the issue of data privacy. With the increasing amount of personal information being collected and stored online, there is a growing need for robust data protection measures. Recent data breaches have highlighted the importance of safeguarding our personal information and holding companies accountable for their handling of data.
On the flip side, technology also presents new opportunities for innovation and growth. The emergence of new industries such as renewable energy and e-commerce has opened up new possibilities for entrepreneurs and investors. By harnessing the power of technology, we can create a more sustainable and inclusive economy.
In addition to technological advancements, we are also facing new challenges in the realm of global health. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of preparedness and collaboration in times of crisis. As we continue to navigate the impacts of the pandemic, it is essential to prioritize public health and work together to build a more resilient healthcare system.
Climate change is another pressing issue that requires urgent attention. The effects of climate change are becoming increasingly evident, from rising sea levels to extreme weather events. It is crucial for governments, businesses, and individuals to take action to mitigate the impacts of climate change and transition to a more sustainable future.
As we confront these challenges and opportunities, it is essential for us to stay informed and engaged. By staying informed about the latest developments in technology, health, and the environment, we can better prepare for the future and make informed decisions. Together, we can navigate through these changes and build a brighter future for generations to come.
