An internationally recognized chemical engineer at Michigan State University will be honored in March by the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) for his pioneering work in sustainable plastics and his significant contributions to shaping the global plastics industry.
Ramani Narayan, University Distinguished Professor of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, (ChEMS), will receive a Fellow of the Society Award during SPE ANTEC 2026 in Pittsburgh, Penn. The award includes a complimentary lifetime membership to the society.
Christina Chan, University Distinguished Professor and ChEMS chairperson, said the department is excited at his election to this society honor.
“Ramani is a leader in advancing bioplastics and sustainable materials,” she said. “His research has led to many breakthrough technologies and also contributed to American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) and the International Standards Organization (ISO) for biodegradable and compostable plastics.”
Narayan is an internationally acclaimed leader and expert in bioplastics, with a focus on developing biobased and compostable materials. His research has driven breakthrough innovations such as the industrial scale‑up of NatureWorks PLA, and his leadership in translating bioplastics from laboratory concepts to full‑scale global manufacturing has helped accelerate the worldwide adoption of sustainable materials.
He is also widely recognized for his contributions to education, publications, and global efforts in plastics waste management - particularly addressing ocean microplastics. Narayan advises and collaborates with major non‑governmental and international organizations on waste management, sustainability, and climate‑related challenges.
He is a Fellow of both ASTM and the U.S. National Academy of Inventors.
SPE is the premier global professional organization for plastics professionals. Founded in 1942, it supports knowledge sharing, education, and professional development within the plastics industry and connects more than 85,000 stakeholders across 84 countries.
Written by Patricia Mroczek
MSU College of Engineering Media and Public Relations page