NETL researchers have developed an improved method for gasifying post-consumer plastic and biomass waste to produce clean hydrogen-rich syngas while reducing the generation of tar as a byproduct. The traditional processes of reaching high temperatures for conversion often result in high levels of tar and char, which complicate separation processes and limit the hydrogen yield. To overcome these challenges, NETL's new approach utilizes microwave heating and an earth-abundant catalyst, resulting in increased hydrogen yields and reduced tar yields to under 2%. This breakthrough was detailed in a report published in Energy Conversion and Management. The research involved utilizing microwave heating and the catalytic effect of magnetite to transform plastics and corn stover into gas with higher hydrogen content and less tar. The innovative approach not only addresses the efficient management of post-consumer waste but also offers a more sustainable and environmentally friendly solution. The United States Department of Energy acknowledges biomass gasification as a mature technology pathway and foresees the potential deployment of this novel method in the near term. With the escalating use of plastic and biomass materials in everyday products, there is a growing need for efficient waste management. The research highlights the benefits of gasification of assorted plastic waste as a viable alternative to conventional recycling or incineration processes, offering a more sustainable and energy-efficient solution. The positive impact of this innovation extends beyond waste management, with implications for environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, and the reduction of plastic pollution, enabling a more prosperous energy future.