The project, proposed off the coast of Brazoria County, Texas, would allow oversized oil tankers known as very large crude carriers, or VLCCs, to load as much as 85,000 barrels of crude oil an hour.

If you’re tempted to pour your old oil down the drain, empty it in a backyard weed patch, dump it near a stream or river, or flush it down the toilet, don’t — seriously, just don’t.

Also, if you’re not quick enough when pulling the drain plug away, oil could flow down your arm and onto the ground. Position the drain pan directly underneath the drain plug of the car ...