Due to the pandemic, which forced people to quarantine and order food, the usage of plastic primarily increased. In response to the escalating global crisis of plastic waste, while public waste separation policies and direct plastic waste collection efforts are important, we need to focus on aggressively commercializing new technologies from a biochemical perspective.

Recently, a breakthrough method for converting plastic back into fossil fuels has emerged, offering a potential solution to the recycling problem. For example, Environment Energy CO., an environmental company based in Hiroshima, Japan, is developing a project to convert plastic back into petroleum energy using HiCOP technology, with a commercialization target of 2025. Unlike previous inefficient methods such as pyrolysis, which applies intense heat in reactors to break down plastic molecules, the HiCOP method shows considerable promise for commercialization. 

HiCOP utilizes catalysts to break down plastic molecules into hydrocarbon gasses, eventually yielding crude oil rich in gasoline and diesel. This oil, containing abundant naphtha, a vital raw ingredient for plastic production, holds potential for various applications beyond fuel, despite the imperative to transition away from fossil fuels to combat climate change. The method's adaptability allows for the continuous processing of various types of plastic waste, including heavily contaminated consumer-derived plastics like food packaging. With plans for commercial operation slated to commence in 2025 and an initial target of converting 20,000 metric tons of plastic waste annually, HiCOP represents a significant stride towards a sustainable circular economy. By combining recycled plastics with biodegradable resins, HiCOP aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate the environmental impact of plastic consumption. 

Despite the inherent challenges and uncertainties, the HiCOP method offers hope in the quest for effective plastic waste management solutions. The successful commercialization of HiCOP could revolutionize the recycling landscape, paving the way for the widespread adoption of chemical recycling technologies globally. As awareness of the environmental consequences of plastic pollution grows, there is increasing pressure on governments, industries, and consumers to embrace sustainable alternatives. The transition to a circular economy, facilitated by innovations like HiCOP, represents a pivotal step toward achieving a more sustainable and resilient future. By harnessing the potential of recycled plastics and biodegradable materials, society can reduce its ecological footprint and mitigate the adverse impacts of plastic waste on the planet. In addition to this innovation of reusing plastic waste, we should start figuring out the solutions for the pollution and global warming, which are currently happening. 

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