How Do Emissions from Oil Sands Compare with Other Crudes Refined in the U.S.?
Two independent studies have found direct emissions from producing, transporting and refining oil sands crude are in the same range as those of other crudes refined in the United States. Highlights from the reports: • Both reports showed that there is a spectrum of direct GHG emissions determined by geological, reservoir, transportation and refining factors. • Direct emissions from the oil sands are generally 10 percent higher than direct emissions from other crudes in the U.S. but, if cogeneration is taken into consideration, oil sands crudes are similar to conventional crudes in terms of GHGs. • Direct GHG emissions are changing over time. • GHG emissions for conventional crudes will continue to increase due to global shift to heavier and more difficult-to-produce conventional crudes. • GHG emissions for oil sands crudes will further decrease through technological advances. Below are links to the studies: Final Report by Jacobs Consultancy Canada Inc.: “Life Cycle Assessment Comparis
