Scientists are developing a new way to tackle two major global problems at once: plastic pollution and the demand for clean energy. By using sunlight, they are finding ways to turn discarded plastic into useful fuels.

A recent study led by Adelaide University PhD candidate Xiao Lu examines how solar-powered systems can convert waste plastics into hydrogen, syngas, and other industrial chemicals. This approach could help create a more sustainable, circular economy by giving new value to materials that are usually thrown away.

Plastic Waste as a Hidden Energy Resource

More than 460 million tonnes of plastic are produced worldwide each year, and large amounts end up polluting land and oceans.…