In today's global economy, energy is one of the most important and sought-after raw materials. Who provides it and how much they provide determines how much influence they have on other countries and the global economy. This is why hydraulic fracturing is currently such an important and controversial topic in the United States. Hydraulic fracturing, more commonly known as “fracking” or hydrofracturing, is the process of using pressurized liquids to fracture rocks and release hydrocarbons such as shale gas, which burn more efficiently than coal. This booming process of energy production provides a much-needed economic boost, creating jobs and providing gaseous energy to Americans. Efficient combustion of shale gas reduces carbon emissions from electricity generation facilities, reducing the carbon footprint on the environment. However, the hydraulic fracturing process uses millions of gallons of pressurized liquid, which contains toxic chemicals, and some of this water remains untreated. The air near fracking sites is also often polluted and dangerous for residents of nearby communities. Injecting millions of liters of water mixed with toxic chemicals into rock thousands of meters underground can cause earthquakes, jeopardizing the safety of all nearby areas. Hydraulic fracturing makes rare natural gases easily obtainable, boosting the economy and reducing carbon emissions. However, negative side effects, such as contaminated water and air, make hydraulic fracturing a process that may not be worth the benefits. One of the benefits of hydrofracking is that it creates jobs in the current economic crisis America finds itself in. The increase in hydraulic fracturing in the United States directly benefits citizens, with the number of employees that...... center of paper ......pros and cons>.Hassett, Kevin A. and Aparna Mathur. “American Business Institute.” Advantages of hydraulic fracking. American Enterprise Institute, n.d. Web. March 25, 2014. “No Fracking in California.” Environment California. Environment California, n.d. Web. March 27, 2014. “Wastewater Fracking.” Catskill Mountaineer. Catskill Mountainkeeper, n.d. Web. March 26, 2014. Hoffman, Joe. “Potential Health and Environmental Effects of Hydrofracking in the Williston Basin, Montana.” Serc.carleton.edu. Carleton College and Web. March 26. 2014. .