4 - Conventional Crude Oil and Tight Oil–Water Nexus

Summary

The chapter explores the water–energy nexus associated with conventional and unconventional (tight) oil exploration, provides water-intensity values associated with conventional oil drilling and enhanced oil recovery, and hydraulic fracturing. The chapter explores the source, volume, geochemistry, and water quality issues of conventional and unconventional oil produced water. The chapter explains the nature and origins of oil field brines, as well as the inorganic (salts, metals, and naturally occurring radioactive elements) and organic constituents. The chapter evaluates the impact of oil produced water on the environment, as well as the ability to reuse oil produced water for beneficial use. The chapter explores the water use and quality associated with oil sand extraction and processing and possible environmental effects as well as oil refining. The chapter evaluates the impact of oil spills on water resources. The chapter examines policy mechanisms that influence the extent of environmental externalities that have emerged from oil production and exploration, including government regulations, forms of corporate society responsibility, and types of contracts.