Petroleum: A Limited Resource
Petroleum, or crude oil, has played a central role in the development of modern society. It was created millions of years ago when ancient plants and sea creatures died and sank to the seabed. Over time, layers of sand and rock covered them. Under enormous heat and pressure, these remains slowly changed into oil. People first used petroleum in small amounts for lighting and medicinal purposes, but its importance grew rapidly with the invention of the internal combustion engine. Since then, petroleum has become essential for transport, industry, and even pharmaceuticals.
Oil is extracted from oil wells, either on land or below the sea, and measured in barrels of around 159 litres. Once extracted, it is sent to refineries where it is separated into useful products such as petrol, diesel, kerosene, and lubricants. These products are the driving force of industrial and economic growth. However, many experts believe that oil production will soon peak and then enter a decline, while global demand continues to rise. This imbalance may cause energy shortages and higher prices that not everyone can afford.
Because petroleum is a non-renewable resource, scientists and governments are searching for alternative energy sources, such as biofuels made from plants. Yet these solutions also raise concerns. Producing biofuels can lead to deforestation and the loss of rainforests, and may reduce the amount of land used for food crops, increasing the risk of famine. The challenge for the future will be to balance supply and demand, protect the environment, and ensure that energy remains available to all.
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Vocabulary match
Task 1 – Read the text and decide if these five statements are true or false.
Task 2 – Read the text and answer these questions.
What do you think?
- Do you think the world should stop using petroleum completely, or should we just try to use less of it? Why?
- What are some advantages and disadvantages of using biofuels instead of petroleum?
- In your opinion, which alternative energy source (solar, wind, biofuel, etc.) has the greatest future potential? Explain your choice.
- Petroleum has helped people travel, build cities, and improve living standards. What negative effects has it had on the planet?
- How can ordinary people help lessen their reliance on petroleum in everyday life? Give examples.
- Imagine the price of oil suddenly doubles. How would this change your country’s economy or your daily life?
- Do you believe scientists and governments can find a balance between supply and demand and still protect the environment? Why or why not?