Petroleum important energy density makes it every combustibles’ main raw material, as well as an irreplaceable raw material used in petrochemical industries for numerous everyday life products.
Finally, petroleum is used as a combustible in domestic heating and as a heat source in many industries.
Petroleum environmental impact is somehow worrying (carbon dioxide emissions, leaks during petroleum extractions, degassing effects).
As in many industries, risks can be minimized by vigilant policies.
Environmental sensibilization has led to the enforcement of standards regarding petrochemical installations, in regards of severe security and health protection requirements.