Green innovation in enhanced oil recovery: pioneering sustainable solution for a cleaner future

Abstract

The escalating global population and the surging demand for oil have necessitated the advancement of enhanced oil recovery (EOR) methods to augment production. However, conventional EOR techniques, while effective, contribute substantially to environmental degradation by releasing pollutants and greenhouse gases (GHGs), highlighting the pressing need for more sustainable alternatives. In response, green-enhanced oil recovery (GEOR) has emerged as a transformative solution, incorporating eco-friendly technologies to optimize oil extraction while mitigating environmental impact. This study offers a critical evaluation of various GEOR approaches, including the injection of organic materials, microbial processes, solar energy integration, and the application of nanotechnology. The originality of this research lies in its comparative analysis of cutting-edge GEOR techniques such as Water Alternating Gas (WAG), foam injection, nanofluid injection, smart water flooding, and microbial EOR. Each method is assessed based on performance indicators, environmental repercussions, and operational efficiency. The findings demonstrate that GEOR methods not only enhance oil recovery efficiency but also significantly curtail environmental footprints compared to traditional EOR strategies. By providing an in-depth assessment of these sustainable technologies, this study identifies the most efficient methods while underscoring their unique advantages and limitations. GEOR methods offer eco-friendly solutions with varied advantages, such as WAG's mobility control, foam injection's enhanced sweep efficiency, and nano-fluid's reduced environmental impact. While techniques like smart water and microbial methods minimize chemical use, challenges such as scalability, high costs, and reservoir-specific limitations remain. The results strongly advocate for the broader adoption of GEOR technologies, emphasizing their crucial role in promoting sustainable development and environmental stewardship. This research contributes valuable insights for both academic researchers and industry professionals, encouraging the implementation of GEOR practices to achieve environmentally responsible oil recovery. The comprehensive analysis presented herein serves as an indispensable resource for advancing the domain of sustainable oil recovery practices.