UC Berkeley develops process to recycle plastics indefinitely

Scientists at the University of California, Berkeley, are developing a groundbreaking process to recycle plastics indefinitely, addressing the significant issue of plastic waste. Currently, recycled plastics often degrade in quality, necessitating the addition of new petroleum-based plastics, which contributes to the ongoing landfill crisis. California alone disposes of approximately 15,000 tons of plastic daily, highlighting the urgency of finding sustainable solutions. Undergraduates Madhuri Suresh and Manas Khatore are at the forefront of this initiative, focusing on the chemical transformation of solid plastics into gas through innovative reactions. Their catalytic process effectively vaporizes polyethylene and polypropylene, the two most prevalent types of plastic waste, including those found in single-use bags and hard plastics. This method also accommodates mixed plastics, which are notoriously difficult to recycle. The researchers emphasize the importance of developing catalysts that are not only effective but also affordable and recyclable. They believe that addressing climate change is crucial for their generation, and their work aims to ensure that plastics placed in recycling bins are genuinely recycled rather than ending up in landfills. In addition to their research, Khatore and Suresh are actively promoting sustainability within their community, as evidenced by their plans to use compostable materials at an upcoming cultural event. Their efforts reflect a broader commitment to reducing plastic waste and fostering a circular economy, which could significantly mitigate the environmental impact of throwaway plastics.