There is an estimated 400 million metric tons of plastic waste generated globally each year. Help may be on the way. Scientists at the University of Cambridge have pioneered a solar powered reactor for converting waste into fuels: not only plastic but also the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide.
The system uses the mineral perovskite as a catalyst to absorb enough sunlight to chemically convert plastic into glycolic acid, which is used in industries ranging from cosmetics to textiles. Carbon dioxide is converted into syngas [a mixture of carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen (H2)], a precursor for the generation of heat, electricity, and diesel. The reactor’s production rate is 10-100 times greater than previous photocatalytic reactors.
Don’s comment: “God has provided everything needed for us to be good stewards of the earth He has given to us (Genesis 1:26; Psalm 115:16). We need to recognize this and continue to seek the solutions He has embedded into His creation. And thank Him for it!”
Source: World Magazine. February 11, 2023, “Solar-powered Cleanup,” p,68
