 Ethylene is a key component in many plastic products, making it economically valuable. However, its production is currently dependent on fossil fuel sources, which are becoming increasingly expensive. Researchers are looking for alternatives to reduce costs and environmental impacts. This paper reviews several catalysts and reaction engineering techniques that have been developed to improve ethylene yields and reduce reaction temperatures. The most successful approaches include a nanocatalyst, a microreactor system, and algal-based ethanol. These methods could provide a more sustainable and cost-effective way to produce ethylene than traditional steam cracking. This article was authored by Hoshing Wu, Dujong Dai, and Denise Fan.