Balancing Harmful Impacts of the Petroleum Industry with Internal Dispute Prevention and External Sustainable Development Initiatives

Abstract

Civil engineers are instrumental in developing industries and economies. Engineers have direct influence on company systems, which in turn shape broader society. Sustainability and environmental and social responsibility are explicit goals of corporations, communities, and professional organizations like the American Society of Civil Engineers. The oil industry has significant effects on sustainability. Risk-taking petroleum companies have frequently failed to ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental codes, leading to costly disputes and stalling sustainability. Engineers are in a position to help change habits from within corporations and support expansion of external projects aimed at offsetting negative impacts from petroleum. This article examines current and future oil markets, risk analysis, safety and health issues, legal disputes, and theories of sustainability. Corporations are expected to implement improved internal safety and prevention systems. Community involvement in sustainability projects is projected to help offset negative impacts of petroleum. Engineers are encouraged to take larger leadership roles within companies and outside of work.