The invisible sustainability problem of glues and how to solve it

Adhesives are hard to see when in use, but they force most products to reside in landfills for centuries. Ongoing research is creating opportunities in materials design and market impact, thereby helping society move towards a more sustainable future.
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J.J.W. has a financial interest in Mussel Polymers Inc., which has licensed adhesive technologies from Purdue University. J.J.W. is a co-inventor on five patent applications for bio-based adhesives for a variety of applications.
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Wilker, J.J. The invisible sustainability problem of glues and how to solve it. Nat Sustain 9, 340–342 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41893-026-01789-9
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41893-026-01789-9

Facts Only

Adhesives contribute to products residing in landfills for centuries
Ongoing research is being conducted to create sustainable alternatives
J.J.W. has a financial interest in Mussel Polymers Inc., which licenses adhesive technologies from Purdue University

Executive Summary

The article discusses the sustainability issues related to adhesives, highlighting their long-term impact on landfills and the potential for research in materials design to address this problem. It mentions ongoing research aimed at creating more sustainable alternatives and reducing waste. The article features various studies and research findings, including those from scientists like J.J.W., who has a financial interest in Mussel Polymers Inc., which has licensed adhesive technologies from Purdue University.

Full Take

The article presents an opportunity for pattern analysis and deeper implications, focusing on the role of adhesives in waste management and sustainable materials design. The discussion around adhesives' long-term impact on landfills underscores the need for more sustainable alternatives to reduce waste and promote a greener future. The involvement of scientists like J.J.W., who have a financial stake in companies developing bio-based adhesives, raises questions about potential conflicts of interest and the objectivity of research findings.
Patterns detected: ARC-0024 Ambiguity (the article does not explicitly state whether the research conducted by J.J.W. is independent or biased due to financial interests)