Perhaps the most abundant natural polymer is cellulose which is a major component of trees, other plants, and the natural fiber cotton.
Synthetic polymers have their origins in nature, but they are true man-made materials.
They are the ultimate tribute to man's creativity and inventiveness, for one of the unusual advantages of the polymer industries is their ability to develop entirely new materials from which their products can be made. Today, synthetic polymers are a multi-billion dollar business that is growing at a rate two times faster than the gross national product. Clearly what is needed are students with a more in-depth knowledge of polymers. Certificates in Polymer Engineering and Polymers are currently offered at Georgia Institute of Technology. Polymer Engineering certificates are only awarded in conjunction with engineering degrees.