Welcome back to our series on “The Planet”! Last time, we explored the journey of crude oil from deep within the Earth to the fuel we use every day. This process is not only fascinating but also crucial for understanding the impact on our environment. So, what exactly are the problems we face with emissions and plastics? Let’s take a closer look.
The Journey of Crude Oil
Drilling for oil, whether on land or at sea, is a massive endeavour. It all starts with geologists pinpointing the best locations using scientific tools like seismology. But it’s not just about finding the oil. There are legal hoops to jump through, including site boundaries and ownership issues, plus environmental impact studies to consider.
Once a site gets the green light, preparations begin. Roads might be built, and water sources identified—sometimes requiring their own wells. Waste from drilling, like rocks and mud, needs careful handling, especially in sensitive ecological areas where it’s often relocated offsite. Interestingly, these reserve pits are usually lined with plastic to prevent environmental damage.
Next comes the real action: drilling the holes. This involves setting up a rig with several systems, including powerful diesel engines and generators. It’s a complex process that requires significant manpower, equipment, time, and money.
When the oil finally starts flowing, the rig is swapped out for production equipment. This equipment extracts, stores, transports, and processes the oil. Through distillation, crude oil transforms into a variety of products: fuels, plastics, chemicals, and more. It’s even used in perfumes, fertilisers, and computers!
The Emission Problem
But there’s a catch. Distilling crude oil emits carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. Different fuels produce varying amounts of CO2, depending on the energy they release when burned. Plus, the process of drilling itself consumes fuel, adding to the emissions.
Remember learning about photosynthesis in school? Green plants absorb CO2 and release oxygen. The problem is, our CO2 emissions are outpacing what plants can absorb, contributing to climate change. We’re in a tricky spot: we need crude oil for many aspects of modern life, yet it’s a significant source of harmful emissions.
Finding Solutions
This ongoing challenge has led to innovative solutions. One of the earliest and most successful has been recycling. By reusing plastic, we can reduce the need for new materials and cut down on waste. In our series, we’ll explore how recycling and other strategies have evolved over the past 50 years. Stay tuned for a deeper dive into these solutions and their impact on our planet!
We hope this breakdown helps you understand the intricate journey of crude oil and the challenges of emissions. Together, we can stay informed and support efforts to protect our environment.
