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ENVIRONMENT NEWS

Levoglucosenone (LGO) and dihydrolevoglucosenone (Cyrene), two commercially available compounds, were transformed
into a variety of polymers by the researchers using cellulose from plant wastes like straw and sawdust. This procedure
makes it possible to create various materials that are suited for particular uses, providing a sustainable substitute for con-
ventional plastics.

After overcoming difficulties in maintaining stability and managing the polymerization activity, the researchers created
polymer films with surprisingly great transparency. These materials have potential for high-performance applications in
optics, electronics, and biomedicine, even if they might not be appropriate for flexible applications like plastic bags. While
bioplastics are already on the market, Hokkaido's discovery opens new opportunities in the field. Future research aims
to explore additional structural variations, potentially through collaborations with experts in computational chemistry and
artificial intelligence. Ultimately, this work aims to establish a sustainable cycle of polymer synthesis from biomass, pro-
moting efficient recycling and reducing environmental impact.
Source:- https://www.waste360.com/plastics/hokkaido-university-discovers-new-path-to-plant-based-recylable-polymers

What was agreed at latest negotiations for global plastic treaty?
he recent negotiations for the global plastics pollution treaty, known as INC-4, took place in Ottawa and con-
cluded with a mixture of incremental progress and significant compromises. The treaty aims to reduce global
plastic production, particularly primary plastic polymers, and improve waste management practices worldwide.
The latest discussions for the INC-4 global plastics pollution treaty took place in Ottawa and resulted in a com-
promise that was both substantial and modest. The aim of the treaty is to enhance waste management techniques globally
and decrease the production of plastics globally, especially primary plastic polymers.

Key points from the negotiations include:
Industry Influence: The presence of around 200 industry lobbyists from the chemical and fossil fuel industries brought

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