Abstract:

The oil industry is one of the largest industries in the world and plays a key role in the development of the country´s economy. However, the exploration and exploitation of heavy crude oil has raised a number of environmental concerns and concerns in the communities where the refineries are located. Activities such as flaring gas and oil spills lead to the release of toxic organic and inorganic pollutants, which leads to acid rain, climate change and pollution of soil, water and air. These environmental hazards directly or indirectly have a negative impact on the ecosystem. This chapter provides an overview of refining processes and some of the potential environmental issues associated with heavy crude oil refining.

Keywords: Heavy oil, toxic pollutants, refineries, the environment.