Stanford Scientists Make Renewable Plastic From Carbon Dioxide And Plants

Stanford scientists have discovered a novel way to make plastic from carbon dioxide (CO2) and inedible plant…

Stanford scientists have discovered a novel way to make plastic from carbon dioxide (CO₂) and inedible plant material, such as agricultural waste and grasses. Researchers say the new technology could provide a low-carbon alternative to plastic bottles and other items currently made from petroleum.

“Our goal is to replace petroleum-derived products with plastic made from CO₂,” said Matthew Kanan, an assistant professor of chemistry at Stanford. “If you could do that without using a lot of non-renewable energy, you could dramatically lower the carbon footprint of the plastics industry.”