What if you could fill up your car without the slightest bit of guilt?

Of course we should strive for fuel efficiency, but scientists as Los Alamos National Labs have devised a way to pluck gasoline from greenhouse gases. It sounds too good to be true, but The New York Times reports that the lab coats are zeroing in on a “closed cycle” that can generate fuel while reducing CO2 in the atmosphere.

The idea is simple. Air would be blown over a liquid solution of potassium carbonate, which would absorb the carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide would then be extracted and subjected to chemical reactions that would turn it into fuel: methanol, gasoline or jet fuel.

Unfortunately, the process requires a ton of energy and upfront capital. Isn’t that always the way? But they are encouraged by how fast technology is evolving. And if gas prices continue to rise, it won’t be long before everyone starts taking a long hard look at their work.