To the editor:

Recently, a reader opined that our world is awash in plastic, the viability of fracking leading to new jobs in the Ohio Valley is in serious doubt and that we must innovate by supporting research (“Our survival’s on the line,” Aug. 2.) Yet, it seems as if the only research presented is from one-sided sources that conveniently align neatly with the author’s political view.

However, readers should know that our companies operating across Ohio are leading the world in research and innovation to provide for a more sustainable future.

Take fracking for example. Jefferson County is ranked third in our state for natural gas production. Research spurring new innovations has led to a shrinking environmental footprint from energy development which helps Ohio to lead in producing energy while protecting our shared environment. This includes drilling technology that yields increased production from fewer wells, as well as new technology that recycles and reuses nearly all of the water produced from fracking, reducing the amount of freshwater needed.

The energy being produced here also helps to support Ohio’s vital supply chains because natural gas and ethane are turned into new products — from personal protective equipment to combat COVID to vehicle parts — as a result of research performed at our public universities and private companies. Our automotive industry is a prime example. As Ford, GM, and their suppliers look to decrease vehicle weight, increasing fuel efficiency for hybrid and electric vehicles, almost one-third of the 30,000 parts in a vehicle are now made from plastic — or 771 pounds per vehicle.

Taken as a whole, this research and innovation has resulted in Ohio consumers saving more than $54.4 billion on utility bills due to lower natural gas prices, Ohio’s emissions declining faster than the national average, and growing opportunities to put Ohioans back to work. Innovation is already happening, and it’s leading to great environmental and economic progress — which will help us quickly recover from the pandemic.

Chris Ventura

Midwest Director

Consumer Energy Alliance

Columbus