Uses of Fuel Oil Heating: Residential and Commercial Heating: No. 1 and No. 2 fuel oils are often used in furnaces and boilers for space heating. Industrial Heating: Larger facilities may use heavier grades like No. 6 for process heating. Electricity Generation: Some power plants use fuel oil to generate electricity, especially in regions where other fuel sources are limited. Marine Fuel: Fuel oil is commonly used in ships and vessels due to its energy density and availability. Heavy fuel oil (HFO) is often used for large vessels. Industrial Applications: Industries may use fuel oil for heating processes or as a feedstock for producing chemicals. Environmental Impacts Air Pollution: Combustion of fuel oil releases pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and particulate matter, which can contribute to smog and respiratory problems. Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Fuel oil is a fossil fuel, so its combustion contributes to CO₂ emissions, which are a major driver of climate change. Oil Spills: The transport and storage of fuel oil carry risks of spills, which can have devastating effects on marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Regulations and Alternatives: Many regions are implementing stricter regulations on emissions from fuel oil. Alternatives like natural gas, biodiesel, and renewable energy sources are becoming more popular as cleaner options.