Cooperative centers for selective photocatalytic plastic upcycling

Photocatalytic plastic upcycling is emerging as a sustainable route to convert plastic waste into value-added chemicals under mild conditions. While considerable effort has focused on improving charge separation, selective product formation requires control over reaction pathways and intermediate evolution. In this perspective, we discuss how cooperative catalytic centers enable pathway regulation through spatially separated but functionally differentiated sites. Beyond directing charge migration, these centers independently govern oxidation and reduction processes, control the generation and transformation of key intermediates, and promote selective coupling reactions. We highlight recent advances in plastic reforming and C–N bond formation and propose a unified framework based on directional charge transfer, spatial redox partitioning, intermediate management, and local microenvironment engineering. By linking catalyst design to reaction pathway control, cooperative centers provide a foundation for transforming plastic waste into high-value chemicals. We further discuss challenges and opportunities for advancing selective and scalable photocatalytic plastic upcycling.