Deep Well Drilling and Sustainable Practices in Petroleum Engineering

Dear Colleagues,

Deep well drilling represents one of the most technically demanding and resource-intensive operations in petroleum engineering. As drilling activities extend into deeper and more geologically complex formations, challenges related to pressure control, temperature resistance, wellbore stability, and environmental impact continue to grow. These complexities highlight the need for innovative and sustainable approaches that can improve the efficiency, safety, and environmental footprint of drilling operations. Recent research and industrial efforts have increasingly focused on implementing sustainable practices in well drilling—ranging from the development of energy-efficient technologies to the use of environmentally friendly materials and closed-loop systems that reduce waste and emissions. Additionally, digital solutions such as real-time monitoring, automation, and predictive analytics are proving essential for optimizing operations and minimizing risk.

This Special Issue invites researchers and professionals to submit original research papers and comprehensive reviews that explore recent advancements in the field of deep well drilling, particularly those that incorporate sustainable and responsible engineering practices. Contributions related to other well operations, such as well completion, workover, and stimulation—especially when approached from a sustainability perspective—are also welcome. Preferred topics include, but are not limited to: advanced drilling technologies, wellbore stability, sustainable materials, energy-efficient equipment, digitalization and automation, CO₂ footprint reduction, waste minimization, well integrity, environmental risk management, regulatory approaches and others.

We look forward to your valuable contributions that will help shape a more sustainable future for petroleum engineering.

Dr. Petar Mijić
Prof. Dr. Nediljka Gaurina-Međimurec
Guest Editors

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