Research in catalysis is vital for several reasons:
1. Environmental Impact: Catalysts can significantly reduce harmful emissions by enabling cleaner production processes. For instance, they play a crucial role in automotive catalytic converters which reduce toxic gases in vehicle exhausts. 2. Energy Efficiency: Catalysts enhance the efficiency of chemical reactions, thereby reducing energy consumption. This is critical in industries like petrochemicals and pharmaceuticals. 3. Sustainability: Developing green catalysts that utilize renewable resources and minimize waste production is essential for sustainable development.