The process of converting CO₂ into ethylene has garnered increasing attention as a way to address two of the most pressing issues of our time: climate change and resource scarcity. CO₂, a major greenhouse gas contributing to global warming, is often seen as a waste product in industrial processes. However, transforming CO₂ into valuable chemicals like ethylene—an essential compound used in the production of plastics, chemicals, and synthetic materials—holds significant potential for both environmental and economic benefits. The economics of CO₂-to-ethylene conversion depend on several key factors, including the cost of capturing and utilizing CO₂, the energy requirements of the conversion process, and the market demand for ethylene. While the technology is still in the early stages of development, advancements in catalysts, renewable energy sources, and carbon capture techniques could reduce costs and make the process more competitive with traditional ethylene production methods, which are based on fossil fuels. By turning waste into a valuable product, this innovative approach could create new economic opportunities, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and contribute to the global effort to mitigate climate change. The success of CO₂-to-ethylene conversion could usher in a new era of sustainable chemical production, where waste is no longer discarded but transformed into a vital resource.
