Petroleum and the Environment: Teaching about Petroleum and the Future of Energy Resources

Students live in a world that is powered by petroleum and other energy resources to an unsurpassed degree. The United States today consumes more than 24% of all the energy used in the world--and about 60% of this energy is provided by petroleum (oil and natural gas). The availability of abundant, inexpensive energy is the main reason that the nation's standard of living leads the world. But it is necessary that students should understand environmental issues and concerns accompany both the production and consumption of petroleum. To help students explore this topic further, the authors have developed the poster insert in this article. The poster is distributed with "Petroleum and the Environment," part of the American Geological Institute's Environmental Awareness series of booklets covering major topics of environmental and societal concern and demonstrating the complexity and interconnection of natural systems. "Petroleum and the Environment" provides an introduction to the major environmental concerns associated with petroleum exploration, production, transportation, and use. If today's students are to have a role in decisions to meet the energy demands of tomorrow, they must understand petroleum's importance, its sources, how it is processed and used, the policies and regulations designed to safeguard natural resources, and global energy needs.