An Investigation of the Possible Effects of Oil Wells and Refineries on Landscapes: Batman Case

Abstract

Petroleum is a substance that mostly consists of hydrocarbons, nitrogen, sulfur, oxygen and small amounts of metal elements. This substance, extracted from underground, has a unique odor, a very intense consistency and a dark color. Throughout history, people have benefited from oil in different ways. With the processing of oil, many by-products are obtained. These by-products are used in many different areas such as transportation, medicine, accommodation, heating and clothing. The aim of this study is to evaluate the possible effects of oil extracted from underground resources on the landscape. For this purpose, Batman province was chosen as a sample area. Batman is one of the 9 provinces in the Southeastern Anatolia Region. Batman economy is based on oil, agriculture and animal husbandry. Turkey's first oil refinery is located in Batman. In the research, field observations, literature on the subject and the area and DPSIR analysis were used. DPSIR analysis is a five-stage analysis method and is used especially for the purpose of determining the situation and guiding / determining the direction of decision makers in environmental issues. It is among the results obtained that the primary environmental problem of Batman province is air pollution, one of the reasons may be one of the oil exploration / extraction / processing activities in the region and this situation plays an important role on the ecological balance, especially human health.