A team of researchers, including biologists from the University of York, are a step closer to producing a biodegradable lubricant made from a new type of oilseed rape.
The new crop could have huge implications for the global lubricant market – it is estimated that half of all lubricants sold world-wide end up in the environment.
Currently there are few alternatives available to the mineral-based products that can be harmful pollutants.
The new oilseed rape (OSR) will not only provide a high-quality renewable alternative, but will have low toxicity and be biodegradable.