How Can Waste Be Converted Into a Source of Carbon for the Production of Chemicals?

Currently, the petrochemical industry uses fossil fuels as the source of carbon for the production of many things, including plastics. This is problematic because carbon dioxide adds to climate change and, in addition, fossil fuels are running out. Therefore, LARGUS ANGENENT and his research group are looking for new sources of carbon. As he explains in this video, their aim is to convert waste into the chemicals needed without adding anything to the original waste product. Specifically, they have focused on acid whey, a side product from the production of Greek yogurt. They have developed a two-phase system that allows them to convert acid whey into medium-chain carboxylic acids, their product of choice. This successful conversion from valueless waste into a useful product is an important step in the process of resource recovery.