In the petroleum industry, downstream refers to the refining, processing, distribution, and retail stages that transform crude oil into finished products consumers use. This includes refineries that convert crude into gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, heating oil, and petrochemicals; pipelines and trucks that transport these products; and gas stations and heating oil dealers that sell to end users. Downstream is distinguished from upstream (exploration and extraction of crude oil) and midstream (transportation and storage of crude). Major downstream operations in Canada include refineries in Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick, plus thousands of gas stations. Downstream facilities in communities create jobs and tax revenue but also raise environmental and safety concerns. Gasoline prices are influenced by downstream factors including refinery capacity, transportation costs, and retail competition, not just crude oil prices.