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in: Metal Oxide Nanocatalysts for Sustainable Energy Production, wiley, pp.25-40, 2026
Rising concern over climate change has driven global efforts toward the development of sustainable technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the environment. Chemical catalysts have become critical components in this shift, as chemical catalysts speed up chemical reactions, but they also require less energy and minimize the production of unwanted byproducts. In this chapter, the basic principles of catalysis, the main classifications such as homogeneous, heterogeneous, and biocatalysts, and industrial processes aided by these are described. It discusses how catalysts can be used to drive green chemistry through greener, more sustainable reactions and less waste. Catalytic technologies involved in the greenhouse gas mitigation strategies, including carbon capture storage (CCS), carbon dioxide conversion to valuable products, and methane and nitrous gas reduction are reviewed in detail. It also looks at catalyst-driven renewable energy, such as hydrogen production, fuel cells, photocatalysis of solar energy, and biocatalysis in the production of biofuels. The focus is on today's obstacles in improving catalyst performance in terms of efficiency, selectivity and stability, and financial and environmental barriers to their widespread application. Three important industrial branches, namely the petrochemical, cement, steel, and waste industries, are addressed as to their relation to the issue of (catalytic) innovation and climate policies. The chapter ends by listing the avenues of future research and explains the potential of catalysis to assist in meeting international climate goals and in encouraging environmental sustainability.