Themed collection UN Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production

139 items - Showing page 1 of 2
Open Access Perspective

Improving microbial electrosynthesis with biochar electrodes in production of CO2 derived biochemicals and biofuels within circular economy systems

Waste-derived biochar electrodes enhance microbial electrosynthesis by improving electron transfer, sustainability and scalability, offering a cost-effective route for CO2 conversion into biochemicals and supporting circular economy goals.

Graphical abstract: Improving microbial electrosynthesis with biochar electrodes in production of CO2 derived biochemicals and biofuels within circular economy systems
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Perspective

How deep eutectic solvents are currently shaping organocatalytic and enzymatic asymmetric catalysis

Asymmetric catalysis is a key technology that provides enantiomerically pure compounds that are vital for the pharmaceutical, agrochemical and food and fragrance industries.

Graphical abstract: How deep eutectic solvents are currently shaping organocatalytic and enzymatic asymmetric catalysis
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Perspective

How do you (dis)solve a problem like methylene chloride?

New regulation has banned some industrial uses of methylene chloride (dichloromethane, DCM) in the USA. What are the alternatives?

Graphical abstract: How do you (dis)solve a problem like methylene chloride?
Open Access Perspective

Addressing the global data imbalance of contaminants of emerging concern in the context of the United Nations sustainable development goals

Pollution from contaminants of emerging concern is a multifaceted issue that can only be effectively addressed with the equitable inclusion of all stakeholders and their diverse knowledge systems.

Graphical abstract: Addressing the global data imbalance of contaminants of emerging concern in the context of the United Nations sustainable development goals
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Perspective

Towards sustainable wood–plastic composites: polymer types, properties, processing and future prospects

Advancing the future of wood plastic composites: a synergy of materials, methods, and sustainability.

Graphical abstract: Towards sustainable wood–plastic composites: polymer types, properties, processing and future prospects
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Perspective

Accelerating the industrial transition with safe-and-sustainable-by-design (SSbD)

Safe-and-sustainable-by-design (SSbD) is a pre-market approach that integrates innovation with safety and sustainability along the entire life cycle.

Graphical abstract: Accelerating the industrial transition with safe-and-sustainable-by-design (SSbD)
Open Access Perspective

Chemical bio-manufacture from diverse C-rich waste polymeric feedstocks using engineered microorganisms

Engineering microbial metabolism is tapped potential to convert industrial waste and by-products into high-value chemical products, providing a more sustainable alternative to traditionally oil-derived chemicals.

Graphical abstract: Chemical bio-manufacture from diverse C-rich waste polymeric feedstocks using engineered microorganisms
Open Access Perspective

Inventing a secure future: material stewardship as chemistry's mission for sustainability

Chemistry should adopt material stewardship as a central mission in fulfilling its vital role in sustainability for people and planet.

Graphical abstract: Inventing a secure future: material stewardship as chemistry's mission for sustainability
Open Access Tutorial Review

Bioactive compounds in coffee husk: extraction, functional properties, applications, and sustainable approach in circular economy

Coffee husk is rich in bioactive compounds with functional properties and holds significant potential for various applications that promote a sustainable circular economy.

Graphical abstract: Bioactive compounds in coffee husk: extraction, functional properties, applications, and sustainable approach in circular economy
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Tutorial Review

Towards polycotton waste valorisation: depolymerisation of cotton to glucose with polyester preservation

Polycotton waste textile valorisation; upgrading waste cotton from polycotton (left) to the platform chemical glucose without affecting the polyester (right).

Graphical abstract: Towards polycotton waste valorisation: depolymerisation of cotton to glucose with polyester preservation
Open Access Tutorial Review

Circular plastic economy for sustainable development: current advances and future perspectives

This review highlights advanced catalytic processes that hold industrial relevance for transforming plastic waste into sustainable fuels, chemical feedstock and advance materials, thereby facilitating chemical circular economy. Image partially generated using iStock AI Image Generator.

Graphical abstract: Circular plastic economy for sustainable development: current advances and future perspectives
Open Access Tutorial Review

Graphene-based catalysts for electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction

This review presents a comprehensive review of graphene-based catalysts for eCO2RR, highlighting optimization strategies, characterization techniques, applications, and future challenges.

Graphical abstract: Graphene-based catalysts for electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Tutorial Review

Advances in 3D printing with eco-friendly materials: a sustainable approach to manufacturing

This review explores eco-friendly materials in 3D printing biodegradable polymers, bio-composites, and hybrids—highlighting processes, advancements, and applications that drive sustainable manufacturing across diverse fields.

Graphical abstract: Advances in 3D printing with eco-friendly materials: a sustainable approach to manufacturing
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Tutorial Review

Multienzyme cascade synthesis of ω-amino fatty acids from vegetable-derived precursors for use as nylon monomers

Via multi-enzyme cascade approaches, ω-amino fatty acids are able to be sustainably produced as nylon monomers from vegetable-derived precursors.

Graphical abstract: Multienzyme cascade synthesis of ω-amino fatty acids from vegetable-derived precursors for use as nylon monomers
Open Access Critical Review

Advances in lead-free perovskite solar cell design via SCAPS-1D simulations

PSCs still face challenges such as lead toxicity. SCAPS-1D stands out as a valuable tool for investigating alternative metals as replacements for lead. This article reviews 54 simulation studies using SCAPS-1D, focusing on lead-free PSCs.

Graphical abstract: Advances in lead-free perovskite solar cell design via SCAPS-1D simulations
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Critical Review

Recent advances in sustainable biomass-based aerogels: a review

Schematic overview of biomass-based aerogels.

Graphical abstract: Recent advances in sustainable biomass-based aerogels: a review
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Critical Review

A critical review on the sustainability of inverse vulcanised polymers

This review takes a closer look at the life-cycle of inverse vulcanized polymers and if they can be more sustainable alternatives to commodity materials in energy storage, remediation technology, agriculture or construction.

Graphical abstract: A critical review on the sustainability of inverse vulcanised polymers
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Critical Review

Advancements in ammonia-based pretreatment: key benefits and industry applications

Comprehensive review of ammonia-based biomass pretreatments, examining diverse processes with varying reaction conditions and reactor configurations that modify biomass structure to enhance accessibility for biofuel, feed, and material applications.

Graphical abstract: Advancements in ammonia-based pretreatment: key benefits and industry applications
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Critical Review

Environmental challenges of disposable wipes: causes, impacts, and sustainable solutions

Environmental concerns from wipe disposal are closely tied to the material composition and construction of wipes. Mindful material selection with optimized process engineering is pivotal in shaping the next generation of sustainable wipes.

Graphical abstract: Environmental challenges of disposable wipes: causes, impacts, and sustainable solutions
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Critical Review

Minimizing oil pollution: a review of current status and its treatment options

Oil contamination is a critical issue affecting global water resources, which originates from a variety of sources, including domestic and industrial activities. Treatment methods include physical, chemical, and biological processes. Image source: Oil spill photo – Jesse Kavanaugh, U.S. Coast Guard.

Graphical abstract: Minimizing oil pollution: a review of current status and its treatment options
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Critical Review

From bamboo to biochar: a critical review of bamboo pyrolysis conditions and products with a focus on relevance to the developing world

This innovative study explores bamboo pyrolysis for biochar production, critically evaluating methods and emphasising advanced separation techniques for syngas, including both condensable (bio-oil) and non-condensable gases.

Graphical abstract: From bamboo to biochar: a critical review of bamboo pyrolysis conditions and products with a focus on relevance to the developing world
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Critical Review

Unlocking the carbon dioxide photoreduction potential of graphene-derived catalysts: mechanisms, product selectivity, and challenges

The article provides a comprehensive review of the latest advancements in graphene-based photocatalysts for CO2 reduction, focusing on mechanisms, product selectivity, and the challenges of enhancing efficiency and scalability.

Graphical abstract: Unlocking the carbon dioxide photoreduction potential of graphene-derived catalysts: mechanisms, product selectivity, and challenges
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Critical Review

Insights into hierarchical porous titanium(IV) phosphonates: synthesis, structure & applications

HPTPs exhibit ordered porosity and tunable coordination environments. This review highlights the synthetic strategies, structural morphology, and multifunctional applications spanning catalysis, adsorption, ion exchange, sensing, and energy storage.

Graphical abstract: Insights into hierarchical porous titanium(iv) phosphonates: synthesis, structure & applications
Open Access Critical Review

Integrating traditional ecological knowledge into a circular economy framework using the example of consumer durable goods for northern rural communities

Integrating Circular Economy (CE) principles with Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) to promote equitable, sustainable and proactive materials design of consumer durable goods.

Graphical abstract: Integrating traditional ecological knowledge into a circular economy framework using the example of consumer durable goods for northern rural communities
Open Access Critical Review

Photocatalytic valorisation of real-world substrates

Photocatalysis, waste valorization, hydrogen, and the circular economy.

Graphical abstract: Photocatalytic valorisation of real-world substrates
Open Access Critical Review

Incorporating hyperaccumulating plants in phytomining, remediation and resource recovery: recent trends in the African region – a review

Phytomining, the extraction of valuable metals from soil or waste substrates using plants, has gained increasing attention as a sustainable and economically viable alternative to conventional mining practices.

Graphical abstract: Incorporating hyperaccumulating plants in phytomining, remediation and resource recovery: recent trends in the African region – a review
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Critical Review

Studies on poly(butylene succinate) and poly(butylene succinate-co-adipate)-based biodegradable plastics for sustainable flexible packaging and agricultural applications: a comprehensive review

PBS and PBSA can be used to manufacture cost-effective and sustainable materials for applications in food packaging and agriculture.

Graphical abstract: Studies on poly(butylene succinate) and poly(butylene succinate-co-adipate)-based biodegradable plastics for sustainable flexible packaging and agricultural applications: a comprehensive review
Open Access Critical Review

Phosphorus recovery from animal manures through pyrolysis: phosphorus transformations, release mechanisms, and applications of manure biochars in agriculture

Phosphorus recovery from animal manures by pyrolysis can effectively close the agricultural phosphorus cycle.

Graphical abstract: Phosphorus recovery from animal manures through pyrolysis: phosphorus transformations, release mechanisms, and applications of manure biochars in agriculture
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Critical Review

Fungal pretreatment methods for organic wastes: advances and challenges in biomass valorization

The image displays various biowastes, important constituents, and possible products of the pretreatment process.

Graphical abstract: Fungal pretreatment methods for organic wastes: advances and challenges in biomass valorization
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Critical Review

Thermochemical and chemo-biological molecular recycling of plastic waste and plastic-biomass waste mixtures: an updated review

Thermochemical and bioprocessing are feasible for recovering valuable building block molecules from plastic residues. Chemo-enzymatic treatment of waste plastic-biomass mixtures is an open challenge due to the diverse composition of the residues.

Graphical abstract: Thermochemical and chemo-biological molecular recycling of plastic waste and plastic-biomass waste mixtures: an updated review
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Critical Review

Hydroformylation, hydroaminomethylation and related tandem reactions of bio-derived renewable olefins: a step closer to sustainability

Biomass-derived renewable olefins act as sustainable and cost-effective starting materials in the production of industrially valuable chemicals, such as aldehydes, amines and other compounds, through hydroformylation and related one-pot reactions.

Graphical abstract: Hydroformylation, hydroaminomethylation and related tandem reactions of bio-derived renewable olefins: a step closer to sustainability
From the themed collection: RSC Sustainability Recent Review Articles
Open Access Communication

Immobilization of aldehyde reductase for the production of bioplastic precursors from agricultural fatty acids

Herein, we report the biosynthesis of bioplastic precursors via the immobilization of aldehyde reductase (AHR) onto a metal organic framework (UIO-66-NH2).

Graphical abstract: Immobilization of aldehyde reductase for the production of bioplastic precursors from agricultural fatty acids
Open Access Communication

Man-made textile fibres from pectin

Low-methyl esterified pectin with a degree of methylation of 33% was shaped into continuous textile fibres via wet spinning with a calcium chloride coagulation bath.

Graphical abstract: Man-made textile fibres from pectin
Open Access Communication

Medium-dependent regioselectivity of electrochemical bromination of methyl levulinate

The method for electrochemical bromination of methyl levulinate using ammonium bromide is reported. In MeCN : H2O mixture, it proceeded via enol intermediate favoring C-3 bromination, and in MeOH – via enol ether favoring C-5 bromination.

Graphical abstract: Medium-dependent regioselectivity of electrochemical bromination of methyl levulinate
Open Access Communication

Spray-coating polystyrene on perovskite solar cells increases thermal stability and moisture tolerance

Hybrid perovskite solar cells spray-coated with polystyrene retain 80% of their original efficiency after 40 hours immersed in water or temperatures of 95 °C.

Graphical abstract: Spray-coating polystyrene on perovskite solar cells increases thermal stability and moisture tolerance
Open Access Communication

Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) production by thermophilic Caldimonas thermodepolymerans comb. nov. from xylan

Complex polysaccharide substrates can serve as direct feedstocks for PHA biosynthesis, potentially eliminating the need for extra processing steps and significantly lowering production costs for sustainable plastics.

Graphical abstract: Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) production by thermophilic Caldimonas thermodepolymerans comb. nov. from xylan
Open Access Paper

Influence of the biomass-source and the extraction process on lignin properties and γ-valerolactone induced conversion of biomass towards valuable lignin monomers

This work shows the importance of different lignin extraction strategies to create valuable products for the chemical industry. Changing process parameters, solvent additives, or biomass can influence lignin properties towards specific applications.

Graphical abstract: Influence of the biomass-source and the extraction process on lignin properties and γ-valerolactone induced conversion of biomass towards valuable lignin monomers
Open Access Paper

Oxidative depolymerization of lignosulfonates to low-molecular weight aromatics: an interlaboratory study

A GC/FID method was developed and thoroughly validated, including a round robin test, to enable objective comparison of three lignin depolymerisation methods using the same lignosulphonate feedstock.

Graphical abstract: Oxidative depolymerization of lignosulfonates to low-molecular weight aromatics: an interlaboratory study
Open Access Paper

Metrics are the key: development of criteria and indicators for measuring sustainability in international chemicals management

Measuring sustainability in international chemicals management: we present 23 indicators as a contribution to the Global Framework on Chemicals. Due to the overarching concept of sustainable chemistry, the indicators are related to several SDGs.

Graphical abstract: Metrics are the key: development of criteria and indicators for measuring sustainability in international chemicals management
Open Access Paper

Development of a bio-synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticle sensor for the quantification of totarolone in Tetraclinis articulata

Electrochemical quantification of totarolone in Tetraclinis articulata extract.

Graphical abstract: Development of a bio-synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticle sensor for the quantification of totarolone in Tetraclinis articulata
Open Access Paper

Fe(MIL-53) metal–organic framework as a facile and sustainable Lewis acidic catalyst for the one-pot synthesis of xanthene derivatives

To synthesize xanthenes using a greener and environmentally friendly approach, the earth-abundant, iron-based Fe(MIL-53) MOF was established as a sustainable solid Lewis acid catalyst, operating effectively under mild conditions.

Graphical abstract: Fe(MIL-53) metal–organic framework as a facile and sustainable Lewis acidic catalyst for the one-pot synthesis of xanthene derivatives
Open Access Paper

An environmentally sensitive method for rapid monitoring of 6PPD-quinone in aqueous samples using solid phase extraction and direct sample introduction with liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry

A novel sensitive environmental strategy for rapid monitoring of 6PPD-Q in water was developed to reduce solvent consumption and waste generation.

Graphical abstract: An environmentally sensitive method for rapid monitoring of 6PPD-quinone in aqueous samples using solid phase extraction and direct sample introduction with liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry
Open Access Paper

Waving the green flag: incorporating sustainable and green chemistry practices into research and education

The interdisciplinary nature of green chemistry requires innovative approaches for engaging broad audiences, making active learning and gamified learning of interest for exploring green chemistry in classrooms and conference settings.

Graphical abstract: Waving the green flag: incorporating sustainable and green chemistry practices into research and education
Open Access Paper

Functionalized AuNP-mycelial composites as engineered living materials for sustainable mercury remediation

Heavy metal contamination, particularly mercury (Hg2+), poses severe environmental and health risks even at trace levels.

Graphical abstract: Functionalized AuNP-mycelial composites as engineered living materials for sustainable mercury remediation
Open Access Paper

Disaccharides as substrates and mechanistic probes for efficient carbohydrate conversion to formic acid in water near room temperature

Combining reaction tracking, isotope labeling, and quantitative analysis provides mechanistic clarity and improved strategies for biomass valorization aimed at hydrogen storage.

Graphical abstract: Disaccharides as substrates and mechanistic probes for efficient carbohydrate conversion to formic acid in water near room temperature
Open Access Paper

Photocatalytic and antimicrobial polymer-based hybrid membranes with surface-modified TiO2 nanoparticles with 5-aminosalicylic acid and silver nanoparticles

Porous PVDF-HFP and silk-fibroin membranes with green-synthesised TiO2/5-ASA/Ag nanocomposites degrade ciprofloxacin under sunlight and UV, with antimicrobial activity.

Graphical abstract: Photocatalytic and antimicrobial polymer-based hybrid membranes with surface-modified TiO2 nanoparticles with 5-aminosalicylic acid and silver nanoparticles
Open Access Paper

Photoreforming of real biomass-derived waste streams using Nb-doped BiVO4 photoanodes for sustainable hydrogen production

For the first time, Nb-doped BiVO4 photoanodes enable efficient photoreforming of real agroindustrial residues into green hydrogen and value-added products.

Graphical abstract: Photoreforming of real biomass-derived waste streams using Nb-doped BiVO4 photoanodes for sustainable hydrogen production
Open Access Paper

Unraveling the role of water in catalytic glycolysis of PET

The chemical recycling of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) via glycolysis is a promising route for recovering the monomer bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET), which can be used for virgin-grade PET production.

Graphical abstract: Unraveling the role of water in catalytic glycolysis of PET
Open Access Paper

Transforming aluminium waste: sustainable conversion to commercial MOFs, hydrogen fuel, and essential aluminium feedstocks

From aluminum dross to MOFs and alumina, this study closes the loop in the upcycling of aluminum dross waste towards a sustainable industrial circircular economy.

Graphical abstract: Transforming aluminium waste: sustainable conversion to commercial MOFs, hydrogen fuel, and essential aluminium feedstocks
Open Access Paper

Sustainable synthesis of sulfonamides via oxidative chlorination in alternative solvents: a general, mild, and eco-friendly strategy

A general, mild, and environmentally friendly method for synthesizing sulfonamides in sustainable solvents was developed.

Graphical abstract: Sustainable synthesis of sulfonamides via oxidative chlorination in alternative solvents: a general, mild, and eco-friendly strategy
Open Access Paper

Mechanical, barrier, and photodegradation properties of biodegradable PLA-based blend films

PCL and ElvaloyPTW improve the ductility and gas barrier properties of PLA. UV irradiation decreases the molecular weight of PLA and increases its crystallization.

Graphical abstract: Mechanical, barrier, and photodegradation properties of biodegradable PLA-based blend films
Open Access Paper

Solar to sustainability (S2S): a comparative life cycle assessment of hydrogen production with a focus on a photoelectrochemical anion exchange membrane reactor

This study employs a comparative life cycle assessment to evaluate hydrogen production via SMR, wind PEMWE, solar PV PEMWE, PEC PEM and PEC AEM reactors.

Graphical abstract: Solar to sustainability (S2S): a comparative life cycle assessment of hydrogen production with a focus on a photoelectrochemical anion exchange membrane reactor
Open Access Paper

Biocatalytic synthesis of the non-pungent capsaicinoid olvanil from agri-food waste

A simple biocatalytic two-step process has been optimised to produce the capsaicinoid olvanil, starting from biomass-derived oleic acid and vanillin and using only biobased reagents and catalysts.

Graphical abstract: Biocatalytic synthesis of the non-pungent capsaicinoid olvanil from agri-food waste
Open Access Paper

Exploration of solvent, volume, and catalyst effects on fluoride-catalyzed end-of-life depolymerization of silicones to cyclic monomers

Recycling end-of-life silicones is of interest due to the high energy and environmental costs associated with producing new materials from virgin raw materials, with this method using fluoride-catalysed processes in green solvent systems.

Graphical abstract: Exploration of solvent, volume, and catalyst effects on fluoride-catalyzed end-of-life depolymerization of silicones to cyclic monomers
Open Access Paper

Lignin depolymerization from softwood biomass using integrated protic ionic liquid–enzyme pretreatment

An integrated protic ionic liquid mediated lignin extraction and enzymatic depolymerization process for softwood biomass.

Graphical abstract: Lignin depolymerization from softwood biomass using integrated protic ionic liquid–enzyme pretreatment
Open Access Paper

In silico enzyme engineering of aldehyde dehydrogenase for eco-friendly ibuprofen synthesis

Biocatalytic ibuprofen synthesis enhanced via in silico-guided rational enzyme design.

Graphical abstract: In silico enzyme engineering of aldehyde dehydrogenase for eco-friendly ibuprofen synthesis
Open Access Paper

Vanillin-derived epoxy resin as a high fracture toughness high stiffness matrix for carbon fibre reinforced structural composites

The following study cements vanillin’s position as a leading replacement for BPA-based epoxy resins in high performance epoxy–amine composite applications.

Graphical abstract: Vanillin-derived epoxy resin as a high fracture toughness high stiffness matrix for carbon fibre reinforced structural composites
Open Access Paper

Comprehensive prioritisation scheme for active pharmaceutical ingredients in Denmark

Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) can cause severe adverse effects if released into the environment.

Graphical abstract: Comprehensive prioritisation scheme for active pharmaceutical ingredients in Denmark
Open Access Paper

Antibiofilm efficacy of a green graphene oxide-silver nanocomposite against mixed microbial species biofilms: an in vitro and in silico approach

The potential of green rGO/AgNPs nanocomposites for broad-spectrum antibiofilm applications.

Graphical abstract: Antibiofilm efficacy of a green graphene oxide-silver nanocomposite against mixed microbial species biofilms: an in vitro and in silico approach
Open Access Paper

Sustainable eco-friendly scale-up synthesis of polytartaric acid using renewable feedstocks

This research represents a major milestone in the synthesis of novel biodegradable polycarboxylic acid utilizing monomers derived from agro-industrial waste.

Graphical abstract: Sustainable eco-friendly scale-up synthesis of polytartaric acid using renewable feedstocks
Open Access Paper

Glycerol-derived ionic liquids: a new family of high-potential renewable ionic solvents

A new family of glycerol derived ionic liquids with tunable properties and interesting applications as hydroxycinnamic acids solubilizers or as reaction media for Pd NPs recoverable catalytic systems.

Graphical abstract: Glycerol-derived ionic liquids: a new family of high-potential renewable ionic solvents
Open Access Paper

Polymerization and depolymerization of polyesters and polycarbonates using 1,1,3,3-tetramethyl guanidine as a catalyst for improved resource utilization

Despite being biodegradable materials whose random disposal has no significant impact on the environment, finding new routes to recycle polyesters and polycarbonates under the current conditions of limited resources is of high importance.

Graphical abstract: Polymerization and depolymerization of polyesters and polycarbonates using 1,1,3,3-tetramethyl guanidine as a catalyst for improved resource utilization
Open Access Paper

Towards a higher level of circularity in lithium brine mining: CO2 absorption in concentrated brines

Carbonate anions are formed following CO2 absorption in real brines made alkaline via electrolysis. The addition of soda ash is thus fully replaced in the lithium carbonate crystallization process, resulting in a more sustainable mining process.

Graphical abstract: Towards a higher level of circularity in lithium brine mining: CO2 absorption in concentrated brines
Open Access Paper

A more sustainable two-step synthesis of alkylated β-cyclodextrin via acetylation and GaBr3-catalyzed reduction

This work establishes a more environmentally friendly access to alkylated β-CDs without compromising characteristic properties of conventionally synthesized methylated CDs, offering a generally more sustainable alternative for future applications.

Graphical abstract: A more sustainable two-step synthesis of alkylated β-cyclodextrin via acetylation and GaBr3-catalyzed reduction
Open Access Paper

Methanolysis of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) using non-stoichiometric protic ionic liquids

Microwave-assisted methanolysis of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) to dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) was catalysed by a recyclable, inexpensive non-stoichiometric protic ionic liquid from sulfuric acid and triethylamine.

Graphical abstract: Methanolysis of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) using non-stoichiometric protic ionic liquids
Open Access Paper

An Fe3O4@keratin nanocomposite doped with copper(II): a reusable heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of novel 1,4-disubstituted 1,2,3-triazole-pyrimido-benzimidazoles in aqueous ethanolic solution under ultrasound cavitation

Water ultrasound-assisted preparation of a novel magnetic nanocatalyst, Fe3O4@keratin-Cu(II) and it's use for rapid and green one-pot synthesis of 1,2,3-triazolo-pyrimido-benzimidazole derivatives (5a–x) in good to excellent yields.

Graphical abstract: An Fe3O4@keratin nanocomposite doped with copper(ii): a reusable heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of novel 1,4-disubstituted 1,2,3-triazole-pyrimido-benzimidazoles in aqueous ethanolic solution under ultrasound cavitation
Open Access Paper

Sustainable and efficient synthesis of oxazolidinones using a unique deep eutectic solvent (DES)

A unique quaternary diammonium salt and urea (1 : 2)-containing deep eutectic solvent (DES) is introduced as a simple and efficient catalytic medium for the atom-economic synthesis of oxazolidinone compounds from epoxides and isocyanates.

Graphical abstract: Sustainable and efficient synthesis of oxazolidinones using a unique deep eutectic solvent (DES)
Open Access Paper

Lignin-derivable, thermally healable thiol-acrylate vitrimers with improved mechanical performance and reprocessability via transesterification

The presence of methoxy substituents on lignin-derivable (bis)phenols leads to enhanced toughness and thermal healing in thiol-acrylate vitrimers, highlighting the potential of renewable feedstocks to improve sustainability in polymer network design.

Graphical abstract: Lignin-derivable, thermally healable thiol-acrylate vitrimers with improved mechanical performance and reprocessability via transesterification
Open Access Paper

Eco-sustainable magnetic polymer composites using recycled and rare-earth-free hard magnetic fillers

Biodegradable polymer matrices, PCL and PBSA were used to fabricate magnetic composites with recycled NdFeB and rare earth-free lab-synthesized ferrite fillers (SrFe12O19 and SrFe12O19–CoFe2O4) across a wide filling range (1–90%).

Graphical abstract: Eco-sustainable magnetic polymer composites using recycled and rare-earth-free hard magnetic fillers
Open Access Paper

A sustainable twist on the Ritter reaction: iron-based deep eutectic solvents as a green route to amide synthesis

A sustainable and scalable Ritter reaction using a reusable FeCl3·6H2O/glycerol-based DES enables efficient amidation of secondary/tertiary alcohols with nitriles under mild conditions, with broad scope, and low environmental impact.

Graphical abstract: A sustainable twist on the Ritter reaction: iron-based deep eutectic solvents as a green route to amide synthesis
139 items - Showing page 1 of 2

About this collection

RSC Sustainability features solutions-focused research dedicated to solving sustainability challenges. We champion chemical science discoveries that support and enable any of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), showcasing new sustainable technologies and greener chemical solutions that drive real-world impact.

We’ve collated recent articles published in RSC Sustainability that align with each of the UN SDGs.

This collection highlights Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. These articles explore sustainable material innovations, waste valorisation, and pollution reduction, such as bio-manufacturing from waste. Other topics include advanced recycling of plastics and PET and ensuring safe drinking water. These efforts aim to enhance resource efficiency, reduce environmental contamination, and support circular economies for greener cities.

To find out more about the United Nations Global Sustainability Goals visit: https://sdgs.un.org/goals

Check out the other UN SDG collections in the series:

UN Sustainable Development Goal 1: No Poverty Home

UN Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger Home

UN Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being Home

UN Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education Home

UN Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality Home

UN Sustainable Development Goal 6: Clean water and sanitation Home

UN Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Home

UN Sustainable Development Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth Home

UN Sustainable Development Goal 9: Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure Home

UN Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequality. Home

UN Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. Home

UN Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action Home

UN Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life below water Home

UN Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land Home

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