Used Oils: Energy, a Source of Life

Abstract

This article presents an overview of renewable and non-renewable energy sources, focusing on oil as the world's leading energy source and its geological formation process. The author characterizes used oils, classified by the UN as hazardous waste, describing their toxic components and their frequent improper uses. It details the environmental impacts of their poor management, including water pollution, soil sterilization, and contribution to the greenhouse effect and acid rain. The text describes two recovery methods, re-refining and regeneration, which allow used oil to be reincorporated as alternative fuel, regenerated rubber, or asphalt material, and presents the Integrated Collection System (SIA) program developed by Fundación Coraje in Medellín, closing with practical recommendations for safe storage and handling of this waste by companies.