by Ann Alexander, NRDC
Highlights
- California has been importing more oil as its extraction in state has begun to wind down due to clean cars and fuel standards decreasing our need for oil
- Many argue that the import of oil from other countries is worse than drilling in state
- California has yet to pass a setback rule that bans having oil wells near homes and schools, making the argument that oil drilling in state is not any better than importing
- Refineries are turning to imported crude oil not to meet consumer needs but to capitalize on exporting the refined products
- A report by Communities for a Better Environment highlights the ways California’s refineries are blocking the state from reaching climate goals and polluting cities
- California refineries now export more than 200,000 barrels of refined products per day
- Though oil production levels have been declining, the refining sector has been increasing and growing their export markets
- Refining uses mass amounts of energy and releases tons of toxic pollution
Fossil fuel divestment and the transition to 100% clean energy is critical to achieving The Climate Center’s goals under the Climate-Safe California Platform.
Read More: https://www.nrdc.org/experts/ann-alexander/ca-refineries-are-driving-our-addiction-oil-imports
Nina Turner
Energy Programs and Communications CoordinatorJanina is a graduate of the Energy Management and Design program at Sonoma State University with experience in non-profits that specialize in sustainability and volunteerism.
