Climate change is here. The global temperature in 2022 was above the NASA baseline period’s average and the
6th warmest year since 1880. In addition, the torrential downpour that affected Peninsular Malaysia in December 2021 was one of the many consequences of climate change faced within the country.
As climate-fuelled calamities like floods and fires occur more frequently and with greater intensity worldwide, it is clear that we require a solution.
To address climate change, more than 198 countries came together to coordinate global climate action during the 27th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP27) held in Sharm el-Sheikh on November 20th 2022.
Among the many fields discussed that contribute to global climate action, petroleum geoscience was among the most important.
Basin and reservoir studies to combat climate change
Basin and reservoir studies provide petroleum geoscience engineers with knowledge of sedimentary processes and stratigraphy. It is used to predict the location and structure of oil- and gas-bearing rocks which are useful in oil and gas operations.
Currently, oil and gas operations are the
largest producers of methane emissions, largely contributing to the worsening of global warming.
One way petroleum geoscience engineers can change the trajectory of global warming is by reducing methane leaks through centralised facilities in oil and gas operations. For example, the installation of an oil stabiliser or multi-stage separation system that takes production from surrounding facilities reduces methane emissions from storage tanks.
As part of its curriculum, UTP provides students the opportunity to have a core specialisation in Basin and Reservoir Studies, allowing graduates to have the upper hand in shifting job markets responding to global climate action.
Mitigating climate crisis with geophysics
Petroleum geoscience engineers apply geophysics techniques to form better understanding, characterising and monitoring of reservoirs. Reservoirs play an important role in responding to natural disasters such as droughts and floods.
Due to global warming, the Earth’s ice masses are rapidly melting, and the frequency of drought and flood are increasing. Petroleum geoscience engineers play a role in modifying the design and operation of reservoirs to effectively adapt and relieve the impact of climate change.
Additionally, petroleum geoscience engineers' understanding of geophysics is essential in exploring and identifying sources of raw materials such as lithium, cobalt and rare earth. The raw materials are used to streamline the change to renewable energy such as wind power.
Graduates of UTP are provided with a strong understanding of geophysics and geology through subjects such as Seismic Data Processing, Seismic Data Imaging, and QI & Rock Physics. The robust curriculum makes it an excellent learning choice for those interested in petroleum geoscience.
Innovative GIS in assessing geo-hazards
Petroleum geoscience engineers’ knowledge of the geographic information system (GIS) is necessary for deforestation analysis, rising sea levels and emissions assessment.
For example, GIS identifies and gathers valuable information regarding potential drill sites for oil and gas operations. GIS assists petroleum geoscience engineers to have a centralised record system with accurate insights and data.
Furthermore, GIS is utilised to determine the ideal location for wind power plant installation to maximise efficiency. The wind is one of the best renewable energy sources since it emits no pollutants into the atmosphere or water. Nature is our most valuable ally to overcome climate change.
In addition to studying the geological and technological complexity of petroleum systems, UTP graduates are further equipped with the ability to engage successfully in the workplace by taking subjects like Professional Communication Skills. Students can also pursue a Minor in Management, which is beneficial for individuals who want to expand their expertise in management and business.
To find out more about UTP’s courses, click
here.
