Climate change can be overwhelming. Despite the community of people working towards a cleaner world, we as individuals can feel like we can’t make an impact. A great way to get through things that are overwhelming is to stop and take it one step at a time. Take a deep breath.
As you take a breath, think of all the gases in the air, from oxygen to nitrogen to carbon dioxide. It’s well known that the increase of greenhouse gases is causing global warming. But what if greenhouse gases could be utilized to help fix another problem: our reliance on plastic.
Founded in 2003, Newlight Technologies has developed a plastic-like biomaterial called AirCarbon that is used to make foodware such as straws and cutlery. It is made out of PHB, a naturally occurring substance. Microorganisms in the ocean make PHB out of the carbon dioxide and methane they eat for food. Newlight was able to replicate this process to create AirCarbon. It is biodegradable and can be broken down by microorganisms. It is also meltable so it can be shaped into many different products.
Letting nature guide us can lead to innovative solutions.
Take a breath, spend time in nature and see if inspiration pays you a visit.