According to BP’s 2018 Energy Outlook, renewable energy will be the fastest-growing source of energy, increasing five-fold by 2040 thus providing around 14% of global primary energy at this future point in time. Concurrently, oil majors are gradually facing potential prospects as a declining industry: while peak demand for oil has not yet occurred so far, it may be expected that this scenario is indeed approaching as oil demand growth slows and eventually peaks.

In terms of international oil and gas companies investing in the renewable energy industry, four studies are of particular relevance to this paper. First [9], are exploring the range of strategies that international oil and gas companies are deploying to invest in renewable energy technologies and conclude, based on general descriptive analysis, that mixed success can be observed with investment models being still emerging.

Unlike 100% natural stones, such as granite, which are quarried and cut into slabs, engineered quartz is a manmade combination of about 90-95% natural ground quartz, alongside a small amount of polymer resins and colors. It’s these engineered origins that allow for slightly larger slabs than its natural stone competition – but that’s not the primary reason quartz countertops are taking center stage.

Compared to the more limited selection of natural stones such as granite, quartz is available in wider variety of colors. Choose from plain to patterned, white, beige, brown or black to screaming red or brilliant blue. Nothing is off-limits, including natural stone doppelgangers ranging from granite to marble, and even wood and concrete. Combining natural looks with manmade durability, cutting-edge choices add sparkle and flair with metallic accents and even those that resemble geode-slices.

Beautiful and versatile, the superior stain resistance of nonporous quartz makes it the go-to choice for those who want white countertops – without the fuss. Harder than granite, it is also extremely scratch resistant. Quartz, however, doesn’t offer the same heat resistance due to polymers (essentially plastics) in the stone, and can be damaged with prolonged exposure to excessive heat.

Quartz rivals granite for ease-of-care, but requires no annual sealing. Simply wipe clean with a soft cloth or sponge and soapy water or pH neutral cleaner. A standout countertop contender, the non-porous surface of this manmade stone are capable of being kept 99.9% bacteria-free, likewise resisting mold and mildew, making quartz an ideal solution for kosher kitchens, restaurant and healthcare settings

Available in an array of thicknesses and finishes, quartz makes for an excellent choice not only for countertops, but backsplashes, shower walls, fireplace surrounds, and even flooring. Quartz options with more consistent coloring, as opposed to natural stone’s variations, get homeowners ever-closer to seamless design as well, courtesy of larger slab sizes.