BMC Chemistry is calling for submissions to our Collection on Carbon capture, utilization and storage to tackle climate change. This Collection invites researchers to contribute original studies on carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies, addressing their role in climate change mitigation. We welcome submissions exploring advancements in CCS methods, CO2 utilization, regulatory frameworks, and innovative approaches to achieving net-zero emissions.

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) has emerged as a critical technology in the fight against climate change, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate global warming. CCS involves capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from sources like power plants and industrial facilities, transporting it, and storing it underground in geological formations. This technology not only addresses the ongoing reliance on fossil fuels but also plays a pivotal role in achieving net-zero emissions targets. In recent years, advances in materials science and engineering have enhanced the efficiency of carbon capture processes, making it a more viable solution for large-scale implementation.

The importance of CCS is underscored by the urgent need to limit global temperature rise and reduce atmospheric CO2 levels. The development of innovative carbon utilization methods, where captured CO2 is converted into valuable products, has gained traction, transforming a liability into an asset. Furthermore, regulatory frameworks are evolving to support the implementation of CCS projects, promoting investment and ensuring environmental safety. As we navigate the complexities of climate change mitigation, integrating CCS into our energy systems is essential for achieving a sustainable future.

Continued research in CCS may lead to significant breakthroughs in enhancing capture efficiency, reducing costs, and expanding the range of suitable storage sites. As the technology matures, we may also see the emergence of integrated systems that combine CCS with renewable energy sources, creating synergistic effects that further reduce emissions. Future advancements could revolutionize how we think about carbon management, potentially enabling the development of carbon-negative technologies that actively remove CO2 from the atmosphere.

Advances in carbon capture technology

CO2 Utilization and Conversion

Regulatory frameworks for CCS

Direct Air Capture (DAC) Techniques

CO2 sequestration methods

CO2 in hydrogen fuel production

Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS)

Use of machine learning in CCS

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 7 Affordable and Clean energy, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

All manuscripts submitted to this journal, including those submitted to collections and special issues, are assessed in line with our editorial policies and the journal’s peer review process. Reviewers and editors are required to declare competing interests and can be excluded from the peer review process if a competing interest exists.

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is one of the most widely used plastics globally, predominantly found in packaging, textiles, and consumer products. As plastic waste continues to accumulate, the environmental burden associated with PET becomes increasingly pressing. Traditional recycling methods often fall short of addressing the challenges posed by PET's durability and resistance to biodegradation. This Collection seeks to explore innovative biorecycling strategies, including enzymatic depolymerization and microbial bioconversion, which can efficiently convert PET waste into valuable materials and chemicals, offering a sustainable solution to plastic pollution.

Advancements in the biorecycling of PET have shown promising results in recent years. Researchers are uncovering novel enzymes, such as cutinases and PET hydrolases, that can break down PET more efficiently than conventional methods. These breakthroughs not only enhance the recyclability of PET but also contribute to the development of a circular economy in plastics, thereby reducing the environmental footprint of polyester plastics. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, this research area holds the potential to revolutionize waste management practices and mitigate the impacts of plastic pollution.

Continued exploration in this field may lead to even more efficient biocatalysts and integrated waste management systems that could transform PET waste into renewable resources. Innovations in synthetic biology and metabolic engineering may also pave the way for microorganisms that can fully degrade PET and other polyester plastics, leading to sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional recycling methods.

Potential topics for submission include, but are not limited to:

• Enzymatic depolymerization of PET

• Microbial bioconversion of plastic waste

• Development of recycled PET (rPET) materials

• Environmental impact of plastic recycling

• Circular PET economy strategies

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Responsible consumption and production, and SDG 15: Life below water.

All manuscripts submitted to this journal, including those submitted to collections and special issues, are assessed in line with our editorial policies and the journal’s peer review process. Reviewers and editors are required to declare competing interests and can be excluded from the peer review process if a competing interest exists.