The Environmental Impact of Oil Extraction: A Call for Sustainable Solutions
Eng. Nourhan Thamer Assi
🎯 Related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
✅SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation
✅ SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy
✅ SDG 13 – Climate Action
✅ SDG 14 – Life Below Water
✅ SDG 15 – Life on Land
Oil extraction is a key driver of global economic activity, but it carries significant environmental consequences. Whether extracted onshore or offshore, the process involves drilling, transporting, and refining, all of which contribute to environmental degradation.
Key environmental impacts include:
Air pollution: Due to the release of harmful gases such as carbon dioxide and methane during drilling and combustion.
Oil spills: Accidental leaks from pipelines or offshore platforms can devastate marine life and coastal ecosystems.
Groundwater contamination: Often caused by chemical leaks in onshore drilling operations.
Noise and habitat disruption: Affecting both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.
To reduce these risks, the use of cleaner extraction technologies, enforcement of environmental regulations, and a shift toward renewable energy sources are essential for a more sustainable future.
Al-Mustaqbal University The First University in Iraq