Environmental Benefits of Modern Heating Oil
A brighter future for New Hampshire starts with a modern fuel, and that’s today’s heating oil. This lower-emission version of heating oil means that NH residents can feel better about the fuel they use to heat their homes, leaving behind a cleaner environment for future generations. Keep reading this page to learn more about what today’s heating oil is and the reasons it’s better for our families and the planet.
Top Benefits of Today’s Heating Oil
Reduced Emissions
Modern heating oil has a significantly lower sulfur content than traditional heating oil (15 ppm, compared to 4,000 ppm), and the Brookhaven National Laboratory found that modern heating oil produces 97% fewer airborne emissions than traditional fuel. But what does that mean for the environment? Today’s heating oil has significantly reduced nitrogen oxide (NOx), sulfur oxide, and particulate matter emissions while still maintaining the quality and convenience that comes with oil heat.
Reduction of NOx Emissions
A greener future for New Hampshire means cleaner air. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), reducing emissions of NOx is a crucial component of their strategy for cleaner air2. NOx in our atmosphere contributes to:
- Ground-level ozone smog
- Water quality deterioration
- Airborne particles
- Global warming
- Toxic chemicals
- Visibility impairment
How Today’s Heating Oil Can Help
Sulfur oxide, particulate matter, and NOx are found in the emissions created by burning oil. A study by Brookhaven National Laboratory showed that in comparison to traditional heating oil, modern heating oil reduced NOx emissions by 20-30% and sulfur oxide emissions and particulate matter by 99%2. This means that reducing the sulfur content of heating oil is directly linked to lowering emissions in our air. Today’s heating oil produces fewer of these harmful emissions into the atmosphere to help reduce the environmental impact on our health.
Bioheat® Fuel: A Low-Carbon Energy Solution
For a low-carbon fuel option, ask your local oil provider about heating with Bioheat® fuel, or learn more about this renewable fuel on our website.