English 
Spanish 
3 min read 
The new method of reducing CO2 in the atmosphere consists of reusing the gas or converting it to reduce its emission into the atmosphere.
A study conducted by groups from the Center for the Development of Functional Materials (CDMF) and the Center for Innovation in New Energies (CINE) is dedicated to finding alternatives innovative to combat the problem of rising carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere. Researchers are looking for solutions that allow the reuse or conversion of CO2 into valuable chemical compounds, with a view to reducing the impact of greenhouse gases on the environment, according to the One Planet website.
Imitating nature – Photosynthesis as inspiration
To face the challenge, CDMF and CINE scientists use nature as a source of inspiration, imitating natural processes such as photosynthesis. Through advanced studies, they added small amounts of copper oxide to a semiconductor composed of bismuth vanadate and bismuth oxide.
The results were impressive, with several positive effects on the photochemical reduction of CO2. The use of the oxide improved charge transfer, mitigated charge recombination, increased visible light absorption, and promoted acetone and methanol production.
- Russia tests nuclear missile with global range, highlighting military potential: RIA
- Historic feat! Researcher clones 700-year-old Araucaria tree that fell in Paraná and guarantees the preservation of the species!
- First patient with Elon Musk's Neuralink chip moves computer cursor using only brain signals decoded by brain implant
- Study led by Princeton and the University of California shows that it is possible to generate electricity with the Earth's rotation and magnetic field, discovery was published in March 2025
Turning CO2 into value products
The research led by Lucia Mascaro, senior author of the study and researcher at CDMF and CINE, opens up new possibilities for capturing CO2 in large quantities, especially in industrial sectors such as oil extraction or steel and hydrogen production.
The use of a photocatalyst makes it possible to transform CO2 into valuable organic molecules, with the potential to become fuel or other products with high added value. An example is the acetone, widely used in various industries, including enamels, paints, varnishes, drug and explosive manufacturing, as well as applications in chemical synthesis.
Methanol also stands out as a solvent in the pharmaceutical industry, fuel for vehicles and aircraft, raw material for biodiesel and plastics, as well as in the extraction of products of animal and vegetable origin.
Innovation and Sustainability in the Transformation of CO2
The research conducted by CDMF and CINE stands out for its innovative approach to combating CO2 emissions, by exploring strategies that mimic natural processes, such as photosynthesis. The possibility of transform CO2 in high-value products adds economic and environmental benefits, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
The promising initiative can bring sustainable solutions to CO2-intensive industrial sectors, paving the way for a greener and more environmentally conscious future. With the continuous search for innovation and sustainability, the researchers demonstrate the potential to transform environmental challenges into opportunities for growth and technological development.
