What role does catalysis play in sustainable chemical processes?
Catalysis is crucial in developing sustainable chemical processes by enabling more efficient use of resources and reducing waste. Green chemistry principles often rely on catalytic processes to minimize environmental impact. For instance, biomass conversion to fuels and chemicals employs catalysts to transform renewable resources into valuable products. Additionally, catalysts are essential in carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technologies, helping to mitigate CO2 emissions by converting them into useful chemicals.