Introduction Technological advancement starting from the industrial revolution has increased the energy demand. Today, synthetic engine oils have replaced traditional engine oils. This paper mainly intends to give brief overviews of synthetic engine oils and their impact on health and the environment. According to a study conducted by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, it is estimated that 85 percent of the motor oil ends up disposed of improperly in sewers, soil, and trash. This is just from one state and if we multiply that by 50 states in the U.S. it can be said that motor oil might well be one of the largest sources of pollution affecting groundwater and U.S. waterways (West, 2007). The basic difference between conventional and synthetic engine oil is that conventional motor oils are derived from petroleum, whereas synthetic oils are replicas manufactured from other chemicals. The main effects of synthetic motor oils Most of the commercial synthetic motor oils are made up by polymerizing short-chain hydrocarbon molecules also called alpha-olefins into longer chain hydrocarbon polymers called poly alpha-olefins (PAOs). Possibly the degree of variation in molecular size, chain length, and branching in synthetically produced oils is much less than that which occurs in crude oil (OECD, 2004). Though safe compared to traditional oils, synthetic oils are also known to cause an impact on human health. The main effects may include irritation of the digestive tract, with symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The skin may be mildly or moderately irritating following repeated or prolonged exposure to mineral and synthetic base oils. With the increase of global warming and other environmental problems, awareness is rising among the general public. The reduction of harmful pollutant emissions and carbon dioxide emissions from motor vehicles are among the top priorities. Consequently, one of the challenges facing the automotive industry is to improve fuel economy, both in terms of conservation of natural resources and to limit pollutants and carbon dioxide emissions (Harrison, 1999). Though when compared to traditional oils, synthetic lubricant oils play a role in the reduction of engine exhaust emissions there are still concerns regarding the impact it has on the environment. Engine lubricating oil has been caught up as a significant parent material in the formation of mobile source particulate matter (PM) emissions (DOE, 2004). According to a recent study, it was found that diesel engine emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and PM were 8 percent and 19-24 percent lower, respectively, with a full synthetic PAO-based oil compared to mineral-based oil (Gligorijevic, et al., 2006). Conclusion In conclusion, it can be said that it is important to safeguard the environment and also protect the life on earth. It is only possible through a sustainable and balanced approach towards development. Whether we use synthetic engine oils or traditional oils, it is important to use them properly to minimize their impact on the environment. Global warming is a major challenge of the global community. Significant improvements can occur at the local, community, regional, and global levels if sustainable development is given priority. It is therefore very