Target: University of Illinois at Chicago
Goal: Thank the university for supporting clean energy research
Scientists at the University of Illinois are working hard on what could become a vast source of clean, renewable energy. If the research team succeeds, they will develop a system to make gasoline out of carbon dioxide. That’s right; carbon dioxide. This greenhouse gas is better known for contributing to climate change, and is a byproduct of burning fossil fuels. Thanks to the work of these dedicated scientists, we’re one step closer to a new and exciting alternative fuel source.
Much more research and development is needed before this new synthetic gas, or “syngas,” is available to consumers. A December article published in the journal Nature Communications details progress thus far. You may be familiar with the catalytic converter in your vehicle, which helps control emissions and converts the byproducts of fuel combustion into less toxic substances. What the scientists are working on is an efficient, inexpensive method of producing syngas through catalytic systems.
Amin Salehi-Khojin, a professor of mechanical and industrial engineering and co-lead author of the journal article, said in a press release that he believes “this can open a new field for the design of inexpensive and efficient catalytic systems for the many researchers already working with these easily manipulated advanced carbon materials.” While the work itself is incredibly technical, even a non-scientist can see how important the findings could be in combating climate change. Thank the University of Illinois at Chicago for creating space for this research, and for demonstrating its commitment to clean energy solutions.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear University of Illinois at Chicago,
An article in the journal Nature Communications has shed light on some exciting and innovative research currently underway at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Scientists have long sought a more efficient way to “reduce” carbon dioxide, chemically, and a team of researchers at the university is closer than ever. Theirs has been an innovative approach, and initial research shows genuine promise that synthetic gas can indeed be created from carbon dioxide.
Climate change and diminishing oil reserves are both real challenges, and this research has the potential to make a difference. Scientists at the university are one step closer to converting a dangerous greenhouse gas into fuel, and for that I am grateful. Thank you for supporting this sort of research, and for helping develop the efficient, clean energy solutions our world so desperately needs.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Tysto via Wikimedia