We need to stop the war against oil. In today’s world, climate activists have been waging a war against oil. Their game plan has been to block the building of pipelines, and to create a regulatory landscape where the drilling of oil is effectively banned along with the blocking of any new oil refining facilities being built. Their sole focus of renewable energy at all costs is leading our modern economy and lifestyle towards its demise, not a transformational renewal. Oil is so much more than just the gasoline we put into our automobiles. Oil is imbedded into almost every facet of our life. If America is to lead the way into the future, we must promote the production of oil so that we become self-sufficient. This is not to say that we abandon our goal of making green energy a substantial part of our energy production, but we must face the facts that we cannot live without oil.
Oil’s significance in energy production is vast and multi-dimensional. The reliability of its supply is one of its foremost advantages. Established supply chains, extraction technologies, and transportation infrastructure ensure a predictable and consistent flow of energy. In terms of energy content, oil’s high energy density signifies that a small volume can yield a significant amount of energy. This is particularly beneficial where space for fuel storage is at a premium.
One of oil’s key attributes is its flexibility in power generation. Oil-fired power plants can adjust their output relatively quickly, catering to peak electricity demands or stepping in as backup during outages from other sources. Furthermore, the technology involved in oil extraction, refining, and combustion is mature and has been fine-tuned over many decades. This technological maturity translates to efficiency and reliability.
From an economic perspective, oil remains a cost-effective energy source in many regions, especially where it’s abundant or imports are affordable. The global oil industry is a massive employer, creating vast economic ripple effects beyond energy production. Much of the energy infrastructure we have, from power plants to distribution systems, is designed around oil, making an immediate shift away from it a complex proposition.
Refineries produce not just fuel but a variety of valuable by-products such as petrochemicals, lubricants, and asphalt. This diversification often boosts the economic viability of oil-based energy production. As the world inclines more towards renewable energy, oil can play a complementary role. On occasions when output from renewables like solar or wind dips, oil plants can maintain a steady power supply.
Many countries keep strategic petroleum reserves as a safeguard. These reserves are a protective measure, ensuring there’s sufficient oil for energy production during unforeseen supply disruptions. Historically, there’s a strong correlation between access to reliable energy, often sourced from oil, and economic growth. Energy powers industries, services, and homes.
A quick look around shows that oil plays a foundational role in the manufacturing sector, serving as the cornerstone for numerous products. A significant derivative of oil, petrochemicals, forms the basis for producing plastics. These plastics permeate various sectors and are integral to items ranging from everyday electronics to children’s toys. In specific geographic pockets, especially in the northeastern parts of the US, heating oil becomes indispensable during the chilly months, providing warmth to residences.
When we talk about machinery and mechanical systems, oil emerges as the unsung hero, offering lubrication that minimizes friction among moving parts. This lubrication not only ensures the machinery operates seamlessly but also extends its life. Without the oil used in lubricating machinery, wind turbines would not be able to provide green energy. The construction realm heavily leans on oil-derived products, with bitumen—a by-product of the oil refining stage—being instrumental in crafting asphalt, particularly for roads.
Venturing into the domain of chemicals and pharmaceuticals, it’s evident that petrochemicals again hold significant sway. Products as varied as detergents, solvents, fertilizers, pesticides, and specific medicines owe their existence to these petrochemicals. Similarly, the agricultural sector is intertwined with oil. While machinery in this sector requires oil for operation, the fields themselves benefit from oil-based pesticides and fertilizers.
The cosmetic and personal care industry also harnesses the properties of oil. Many of the products that grace our shelves, from hydrating lotions to vibrant makeup, incorporate ingredients sourced from oil. In the world of materials, synthetics like rubber and particular fabrics have their roots in oil components. Furthermore, the art and printing sectors have a connection to oil as well, with oil-based paints and inks being favored for their unique drying times and finishing attributes.
As you can see, oil is extremely intertwined into our modern lives. These climate activists and their zealous attacks on oil production and use, is counterproductive to America’s attempts to solve climate change. Our spineless politicians are pandering to the green energy climate activists in order for them to stay in power, instead of working for the betterment of the country as a whole. The green energy climate change agenda can exist along with a self sufficient oil industry. It’s time this country moves beyond politics and gets serious about how fighting climate change should not be a war against oil.