Clean Technology in Petroleum Refining: Between Necessity and Feasibility<br />By: Asst. Lecturer Shahad Ammar Hatam<br /><br />Relevant Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):<br />SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy<br />SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure<br />SDG 13: Climate Action<br />Introduction<br />Petroleum refining is essential to global energy supply but is also a major source of pollution and CO₂ emissions. The need for clean technology in refining is no longer optional—it is an urgent requirement for sustainability, efficiency, and climate responsibility.<br />What Is Clean Refining Technology?<br />Clean refining refers to processes that reduce harmful emissions, conserve energy, and optimize resource use. Key examples include:<br />Hydrotreating: Removes sulfur and other impurities.<br />Membrane separation: Reduces the need for energy-intensive distillation.<br />Waste heat recovery: Captures unused energy from exhaust streams.<br />Catalyst optimization: Enhances fuel quality and reduces by-products.<br />Challenges in Implementation<br />Despite its benefits, adopting clean technology faces:<br />High capital costs<br />Complex integration into existing systems<br />Need for skilled workforce and technology transfer<br />However, these challenges are being reduced through innovation and regulatory pressure.<br />Environmental and Economic Benefits<br />Clean refining decreases emissions of SOx, NOx, and particulate matter. It improves fuel quality, increases operational efficiency, and helps companies meet international environmental standardsaligning with SDGs 7, 9, and 13.<br /><br />Conclusion<br />Clean technology in refining bridges the gap between traditional energy and a low-carbon future. As the world transitions toward sustainability, modernizing refining operations is essential to ensuring energy security without compromising the environment.<br /><br />"Al-Mustaqbal University – The No. 1 Private University in Iraq"<br />