As the impacts of climate change become increasingly severe, the drilling industry faces significant challenges that require urgent adaptation. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently released a climate change indicators study highlighting the effects of greenhouse gases, which are largely responsible for the rising global temperatures and the frequency of extreme weather events. This phenomenon, known as "climate forcing," has led to an escalation in environmental disruptions that directly affect drilling operations and water resources.

The EPA study emphasizes that while U.S. greenhouse gas emissions have seen a slight decrease since 1990, the global emissions have surged by 44%. This alarming rise in emissions has exacerbated the rate of climate change, making the situation more complex and challenging for industries like drilling. 

According to the study, the continuous accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere is driving unprecedented temperature increases and extreme weather conditions that are wreaking havoc worldwide.

Brock Yordy, seasoned industry expert and host of The Driller Newscast, recently discussed the findings of this study, underscoring the gravity of the situation. He referenced a report from Copernicus, the European climate agency, which noted that July 2024 ended a 13-month streak of global heat records. 

However, Yordy emphasized that this slight relief should not be seen as a reprieve. "The overall context hasn’t changed," Yordy quoted Copernicus Deputy Director Samantha Burgess, "Human-caused climate change drives extreme weather events that are wreaking havoc around the globe."

This dire warning is not limited to rising temperatures. The drilling industry, particularly those involved in water well drilling, must contend with the growing scarcity of water resources. As Yordy pointed out, the U.S. has seen an increase in extreme weather events, from torrential rains and floods to devastating hurricanes and record heatwaves. These events are not just anomalies; they are the new norm.

The implications for drilling operations are profound. Groundwater levels are declining, making it increasingly difficult and costly to access reliable water sources. This is particularly concerning for regions that rely heavily on aquifers, which are under tremendous stress due to overuse and insufficient replenishment. 

The EPA's study also highlights that the earth’s water cycle has accelerated, leading to more intense evaporation rates and further straining water resources. For water conservation, this poses a significant threat to water security and water rights worldwide.

To navigate these challenges, the drilling industry must innovate and integrate climate resilience into their operations. Yordy calls for a proactive approach, urging drillers to adopt smarter groundwater conservation policies and to explore alternative energy solutions such as geothermal drilling. "Get those big rigs out there and start drilling for deep rock, 700-plus degrees hot rock geothermal, because our climate has changed," Yordy advised.

The need for adaptation is urgent. The EPA's findings indicate that without significant changes, the industry will face escalating difficulties that could jeopardize the sustainability of drilling operations. By investing in more efficient drilling techniques and water conservation technologies, the industry can mitigate some of the impacts of climate change and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Given the ongoing studies and urgent pleas from our climate experts, the drilling industry stands at a critical juncture. As climate change continues to accelerate, the industry's ability to adapt will determine its future viability. The EPA study and experts like our very own Brock Yordy offer a clear message: the time for action is now. Drillers must embrace innovation, invest in sustainable practices, join their local geothermal and groundwater associations, and prepare for a future where resilience is key to success.