Lauren Sommer

Lauren is a radio reporter for KQED Science, specializing in water, energy and the environment. As part of her day job, she has scaled Sierra Nevada peaks, run from charging elephant seals and desperately tried to get her sea legs - all in pursuit of good radio. She has been recognized by the Society of Environmental Journalists and the National Edward R. Murrow Awards and is a recipient of the Harold Gilliam Award for Excellence in Environmental Reporting. Lauren has a degree from Cornell University and is originally from the Bay Area. She is also a regular contributor to NPR's Morning Edition and All Things Considered.

Can humans replicate this wonder of nature, to help in the battle against climate change? Leaves, and the photosynthesis that powers them, suck CO2 out of the air and turn it into a valuable raw material. Scientists are trying to do the same, and use the

Take air. Suck out CO2. Make fuel. A lab advance hints at a future for artificial photosynthesis

Researchers believe that artificial photosynthesis that sucks excess CO2 out of the air could one day help fight climate change. But capturing the gas is only half the challenge. The other half is what to do with it once you've got it. Lauren Sommer reports on a potentially breakthrough technology that uses artificial photsynthesis to turn CO2 from the air into industrial chemicals and natural gas.

Take air. Suck out CO2. Make fuel. A lab advance hints at a future for artificial photosynthesis