PowerPetroleum
Petroleum is a yellowish-black liquid found in geological formations beneath the Earth’s surface. The burning of petroleum as fuel releases toxic gasses and carbon dioxide which contributes to global warming and ocean acidification.
In the game
In the game Climate Cooldown, "Petroleum" is an unsustainable Power card that we can divest from. Although Petroleum does give us energy resources we need, it also increases our impact toward heating the globe. Petroleum is one of the non-renewable power sources we can divest from.
Prospective degrees
Petroleum engineeringEnvironmental science with a focus on energy transition
Careers
Renewable energy transition consultantPetroleum engineer transitioning to renewable energy
For the classroom
Discussion prompts by grade level
- What is petroleum and how is it used?
- Can you think of any environmental impacts associated with petroleum extraction and use?
- Describe the formation, extraction, and refining processes of petroleum.
- Discuss the environmental consequences of petroleum spills, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions.
- Examine the role of petroleum in the global energy system and its contributions to economic development and industrialization.
- Evaluate the socio-economic and environmental challenges of fossil fuel dependency and the transition to renewable energy alternatives.
- Critically analyze the geopolitical dynamics of petroleum production, distribution, and consumption.
- Discuss the complexities of energy policy and regulation in managing petroleum resources and addressing climate change mitigation.
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