Conclusion:

In summary, used motor oil that is improperly disposed of contaminates our water resources. As a result, this has an extremely negative impact on wildlife, ecosystems, fresh water resources, as well as our economy and society. If we could go back in time to implement it, our policy, which was designed to reduce the amount of oil waste found in water, would have many positive effects. As shown through the data presented, many North American citizens are unaware of oil recycling or are unable/unwilling to take the time to make sure the waste oil they produce is taken care of and recycled properly. This was solidified from our contacts, which were oil change companies who were unsure themselves of where their used oil went, simply stating that they "have a company come pick it up...and then don't worry about it anymore." Making it a law to dispose of oil waste products, as well as the policy being government-funded would mean better access to recycling depots and a sense of public responsibility for this problem. Also, oil leakage from cars due to irregular maintenance is the main cause of water pollution. Therefore, reducing the amount of oil leakage by promoting regular vehicle maintenance would decrease water pollution due to land run-off.

Our policy also had a few negative impacts including the impact on our economy. As in most environmentally friendly changes, putting a greater emphasis on refining oil would affect the economy. It would cost money to set up recycling depots, cause unemployment due to the lessening need of virgin oil, and since our policy is government funded, it would most likely cause taxes to be raised in order for the government to cover these costs. But the negative economic effects are only shot-term, as refining oil is more cost effective than producing virgin oil.

We would also like to note that this policy is only a short-term solution to a long-term problem. This policy focuses on the negative impact motor oil has to our water, and ecosystems. But, oil is a non-renewable resource and even though reusing used motor oil helps us to make this less of a problem, alternative energy sources need to be created. Also, refined oil is often burned, which creates air pollution. Implementing a policy like this in 1903 would greatly affect our water quality and ecosystems today, but focusing on alternative energy sources is essential to solving the long-term problem of sustainable energy and the use of proper, environmentally friendly resources.