Graphene going green—Today’s energy scenarios

Nowadays, mainstream research on graphene trends towards employing environmentally friendly or green synthesis routes and precursors, and ensuing green graphene nanomaterials are shown to be highly beneficial for a range of scientific applications, from energy/electronics to engineering to biomedical arenas. Specifically, graphene has emerged as a leading contender for designing green or ecological energy conversion (solar cells, fuel cells) and energy storage (supercapacitors, batteries) devices/systems. In this perspective article, we basically aim to highlight state-of-the-art advancements of green-sourced graphene and related nanomaterials in today’s energy sectors. According to scientific endeavors so far on green graphene, its successful design, real-world energy conversion/storage device application, and commercialization depend upon resolving underlying challenges of synthesis/performance. We observe notable applications of green graphene in the fields of photovoltaics, fuel cells, capacitors, and batteries. Herein, we suggest comprehensive future surveys for advanced fabrication techniques and sustainable sources/techniques to develop next-generation green graphene-derived energy systems with superior energy storage capacities and power outputs.