As the name suggests, fossil fuels are an ancient relic – but we know the solution

Every year, the world turns to Cop hoping for leadership, action and collaboration to stem climate change at its root. However, last week we saw Azerbaijan’s president Ilham Aliyev say that oil and gas are “a gift of god”, as well as leaders of high-polluting countries, such as Emmanuel Macron, Joe Biden and Narendra Modi, not showing up to the negotiations at all. Everyday life goes on with its old habits and our speeches – full of good words about fighting climate change – change nothing.” If real change isn’t yet coming from summits, it can still come from innovation. With the right support, bio-based chemicals and materials have the potential to generate upwards of £204bn annual revenue for UK plcs, and significantly contribute to the UK’s net zero commitment. The implementation of more bio-based products could lead to the sustainable management of natural resources to avoid over-exploitation, whilst ensuring food security and the creation of competitive and productive “green” jobs.