RECOMPENSE project

The RECOMPENSE project addresses the challenge of recycling polystyrene (PS) waste generated in laboratories, which contributes significantly to global plastic pollution. With only 1% of PS being recycled, the project aims to develop accessible and affordable protocols to upcycle PS into polystyrene sulfonic acid (PSSA) resins for reuse as catalysts in organic synthesis. The project promotes sustainability by engaging the Chemistry education and research communities and encouraging further applications of PSSA resins, reducing PS waste and advancing sustainable chemistry practices. 

The RECOMENSE project is coordinated by Dr David Palomas, a Lecturer (Teaching) in Chemical Sustainability at the Department of Chemistry of University College of London (UCL). Our educational materials are co-created with students from the Department of Chemistry at UCL.