Penn State and Shell Partner to Tackle Plastic Pollution and Energy Transition

Plastic pollution is everywhere, infiltrating marine and freshwater systems, drinking water, air, food, and at times, even our bodies. While many are familiar with images of sea turtles and birds suffering from plastic entanglement and ingestion, the ubiquity of plastic pollution is a direct result of the massive scale of single use plastic production. Annually, nearly 460 million metric tons of plastic are produced globally, and half of this plastic is designed for single use, where production is expected to triple by 2050. This surge in plastic production is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, undermining efforts to combat climate change.

However, in response to these challenges, Penn State and Shell USA Inc. have reported a collaboration to support research, education, and community impact initiatives around this topic. Shell has committed over $1 million to fund projects focused on energy transition, decarbonization, polymer recycling, and biodiversity. This partnership aims to build an inclusive and innovative energy workforce, with investments in student organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Faculty at Penn State Behrend and the Advanced Resource Efficiency Center will analyze the current state of polymer recycling in Pennsylvania as polymers, found in products like tires and synthetic fabrics, can be recycled to reduce environmental impact and improve resource efficiency. Shell funding will also support the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences in evaluating Pennsylvania’s role as an energy producer. This includes examining the demand for natural gas and the potential for renewables and biofuels.

In the College of Agricultural Sciences, research teams will explore consumer perceptions of polymer-based packaging. However, despite these efforts, Shell’s environmental track record raises concerns.

The company has faced numerous environmental violations, fines, lawsuits, and charges for violating the Pennsylvania Clean Streams Law since opening a facility in late 2022. Critics argue that partnerships like the one with Penn State serve to greenwash Shell’s image amid ongoing environmental controversies. While this could be true, the research conducted by students in the university would support various efforts in the fight against plastic pollution, waste, and energy consumption.

For instance, this summer, Penn State Behrend received a $100,000 grant from the American Chemistry Council to study microplastics in Lake Erie – a topic less familiar than others in this space. Funding from such unique sources help to push much needed studies that have potential to change our habits in the world where hopefully, industry, nonprofit, government and academic leaders can work together to build a diverse and interdisciplinary community dedicated to energy transition, decarbonization, and a reduction in plastic waste for years to come.