Energy For Modern Life
Jessica Lutz
Posted January 22, 2019
Natural gas and oil are integral in all parts of modern life, every hour of every day. They serve as the building blocks for products and components associated with health care, clean water, education, entertainment, communications, art, agriculture and more. They fuel our transportation and power our 21st-century electricity grid – while making possible so many products that make life easier, healthier and safer.
This message was one of the takeaways from API’s recent State of American Energy event, and is captured in our latest video, “America’s Generation Energy.” Take a look:
Natural gas and oil supply 68 percent of the energy we use. Natural gas heats homes, prepares meals and fuels the generation of a third of our electricity – a number the U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts could increase to more than 50 percent in 2040. Oil powers transportation, ensuring freedom of movement and supporting the broader economy. Natural gas and oil are leading energy sources because they're abundant, reliable, portable and useful on a scale demanded by a nation as large as the United States.
In addition to powering everyday life, natural gas and oil products also save lives – thin, flexible, polyester-like artificial valves keep hearts beating; sterile products like intravenous lines, gloves, masks and catheters prevent the spread of disease; and medications are able to last longer with refrigeration.
Natural gas not only helps you cook dinner but generates the electricity that keeps foods fresh. And those materials in the packaging of your food? They’re made from petroleum. Meals ready to eat are packaged in pouches with petroleum derived components to serve the military and play a pivotal role in humanitarian disaster relief. Innovations in the food supply chain are possible, in large part, thanks to natural gas and oil.
From music to movies to some of the greatest works of art, natural gas and oil are an essential partner to keeping us entertained.
Perhaps that’s why 9 in 10 Americans see personal value in natural gas and oil.
Bonus Content: While it was originally released last summer, I’d be remiss if I didn’t suggest you watch “Impossible 2.0” – an excellent overview of how natural gas and oil make our modern lives possible. Check it out here:
About The Author
Jessica Lutz is a writer for the American Petroleum Institute. Jessica joined API after 10+ years leading the in-house marketing and communications for non-profits and trade associations. A Michigan native, Jessica graduated from The University of Michigan with degrees in Communications and Political Science. She resides in London, and spends most of her free time trying to keep up with her energetic Giant Schnauzer, Jackson.