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An oxidation catalyst used to convert carbon monoxide into less toxic carbon dioxide at low temperatures | Image via NASA Langley Research Center / Wikimedia

In this zone we will look at chemists trying to limit the impact of industrial processes on the environment, as well as those looking at ways for us to use fewer natural resources, or turn waste products into useful materials.

One way to do this might be through the use of catalysts. A catalyst increases the rate of a reaction, and lowers the amount of energy needed. As catalysts are not used up in the reaction, they can be used over and over again. Another way may be to take waste products of industrial processes, and using them to create materials which can be used in other ways.

In this zone we will meet scientists making safe chemicals which are good for the planet, looking at new ways to produce alternative fuels to power our cars, or making plastics from plants!