Final answer:
Underground storage tanks (USTs) are an environmental hazard because they can contaminate groundwater with hazardous substances such as petroleum, chemicals, and radioactive materials. Fracking and storage tanks for oil, gas, and nuclear waste are examples of USTs that can contribute to groundwater contamination.
Step-by-step explanation:
Underground storage tanks (USTs) are considered an environmental hazard primarily because of the potential for groundwater contamination. USTs can leak hazardous substances such as petroleum, chemicals, or radioactive materials into the surrounding soil and water. This can contaminate groundwater, which is a vital source of drinking water for many communities.
For example, fracking, which involves injecting large amounts of water and chemicals into the ground to extract natural gas, has been linked to groundwater contamination. The chemicals used in fracking fluid can pollute the groundwater, making it unsafe for human and animal consumption. Similarly, storage tanks for oil and gas can also leak and contaminate groundwater if not properly maintained.
Furthermore, USTs that store radioactive waste, such as those used in nuclear power plants, pose an additional risk. If these tanks leak, the radioactive materials can seep into the groundwater, posing a serious health hazard to both humans and the environment.