Research

This paper examines how scientific uncertainty in greenhouse gas emissions estimates for petrochemical production have lacked quantification globally, impacting emissions reporting or management and decarbonisation policymaking.

Carbon emissions from industry are dominated by production of goods in steel, cement, plastic, paper, and aluminum. Demand for these materials is anticipated to double at least by 2050, by which time global carbon emissions must be reduced by at least 50%. This paper explores how to make that possible.

Plastics are controversial due to their production from fossil fuels, emissions during production and disposal, potential toxicity, and leakage to the environment. In light of these concerns, calls to use less plastic products and move toward nonplastic alternatives are common. However, these calls often overlook the environmental impacts of alternative materials.