A crucial challenge lies in tackling the ever-rising levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in our atmosphere. CO2 concentration has recently hit an alarming 421 parts per million (ppm), a significant jump from the pre-industrial revolution baseline of 280 ppm. This increase is a major culprit behind global warming, unleashing a series of harmful environmental consequences, such as heat waves, droughts, floods, and storms.

Chicago-based LanzaTech leverages yeast-like bacteria to convert captured CO2 and carbon monoxide from industrial facilities into ethanol, a versatile bio-chemical. This ethanol can be used to make sustainable fuels, allowing an 85% emission reduction when blended with gasoline and jet fuel compared to traditional options. In 2018, they pioneered the world's first CO2-based jet fuel flight. Their technology also demonstrates a 30% reduction potential of carbon emissions in steel production, with operations at major facilities globally, including China, India, and Belgium.

Newlights Technologies, a California-based company has developed a biocatalyst that utilizes microorganisms to transform captured CO2 into a bioplastic material called AirCarbon. This versatile material is already gaining traction within leading industries for the creation of sustainable products. It has been used to make over 50 million products, including Shake Shack straws and cutlery as well as sunglasses and wallets.