Downstream refers to all activities and processes involved in the oil and gas industry that occur after the production phase. This segment of the industry includes the refining, processing, transporting, marketing, and distribution of oil, natural gas, and petroleum-derived products to businesses and consumers. Downstream encompasses everything that happens to hydrocarbons after they are extracted from the ground. This includes turning crude oil into various types of fuels, such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel, as well as other products like plastics, fertilizers, and pharmaceuticals. Transportation can involve pipelines, ships, and trucks, while marketing and distribution can encompass the operation of gas stations, as well as the sale of various products to end-users.

For more information about the downstream sector of the energy industry, these websites can provide insightful details:

1. U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)
– The EIA website provides comprehensive data, reports, and analyses about various aspects of energy, including the downstream sector. It is a reliable source for understanding how refined products are distributed and consumed within the U.S. and globally.
Website: https://www.eia.gov/

2. International Energy Agency (IEA)
– The IEA offers a wide range of resources, including market reports and statistics that help illustrate the downstream operations within the context of global energy markets. Their information is useful for understanding the impact of downstream activities on international energy dynamics.
Website: https://www.iea.org/topics/oil/products