Clove essential oil is a promising antibacterial substance. In a new study, researchers from Dongguk University explore a sustainable way to create carbon quantum dots (CQDs) from clove residue left after extracting essential oil. These CQDs were tested for their ability to form Pickering emulsions, which are more stable and have enhanced antibacterial properties compared to traditional emulsions using Polysorbate 80. Thus, the proposed emulsions are promising for food and cosmetic applications.