Ecuador Launches First Fracking in the Amazon Rainforest

Ecuador has begun hydraulic fracturing in its Amazon rainforest, marking the country’s first use of this extraction method in Sucumbios province. State oil firm Petroecuador and Chinese partner CCDC say operations have started at a northeastern oilfield. Fracking injects high-pressure fluids into underground rock to release oil and gas. Critics warn it uses large volumes of water, risks chemical contamination and can trigger minor seismic activity. Petroecuador argues the initiative will strengthen Ecuador’s energy sector and support economic development. The country has faced power shortages during recent droughts and currently consumes more energy than it produces. Officials expect the project to yield over 930 barrels per day initially.

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