We've Got to Stop Fueling Around

by AJ Fanter

Think prices at the pump were staggering this summer? Get ready. Prices are likely to go even higher and stay that way due to the damage wreaked by Hurricane Katrina.

The Predictions

It really shouldn't have come as a surprise. Many in the environmental engineering and energy fields had been talking about the possibility of a major oil and gas crisis occurring in the Gulf Coast for years. In fact, as early as 2003 the American Association of Petroleum Geologists was sounding the alarm about the tenuous situation of Port Fourchon. But if you're like me, it's unlikely that you'd heard of much about Port Fourchon before Hurricane Katrina.

Port Where?

According to Ted Falgout, director of Port Fourchon, there is no more significant location on America's energy map. Why? Fully 18% percent of this nation's energy supply comes from the Port Fourchon. And it supports 75% of all the deepwater oil and gas production in the entire Gulf of Mexico. But Port Fourchon is just the beginning. Hurricane Katrina has effectively slowed, and in some cases stopped, oil production, imports, and refining throughout the Gulf Coast. What's that mean to you and me? Higher prices at the pump that are likely to be around for awhile because half (yes, 50%) of all the gas used in the United States comes from the refineries along the gulf.

This Isn't the 70s

Our nation's dependency on fossil fuels isn't news. The energy crisis of the 1970s resulted in some advances, including increased vehicle fuel efficiency and a greater emphasis on commuting and public transportation. But it's unlikely this time around that a few more miles per gallon, while helpful, will be enough. There's more competition in the global marketplace for oil as other large industrialized nations seek to expand their own economies. This time we have to make a commitment to alternative fuels.

What Can You Do? Go Alternative!

You've probably heard about hybrid cars that run on a combination of electricity and gas. Chances are you may not be as familiar with hydrogen cell technology or biodiesel, a fuel substitute made from vegetable oils and restaurant grease. But, as any Environmental Engineer can tell you, these and other "future fuel" options hold the tremendous promise of reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and preserving precious resources for future generations. Environmental Engineers are on the cutting edge of these new fuel technologies. If you're looking for a career that will help propel us into the 21st century, without the traditional "fueling" around, it could be time to consider getting a bachelor's, master's or doctorate degree in Environmental Engineering.

Sources:

Nationmaster.com
American Assn of Petroleum Geologists

About the Author

Amy J. Price-Fanter is a full-time marketing writer specializing in direct mail for the gaming industry. She holds a B.A. in English from Colby College with concentrations in Education and Government.