Advances in non-thermal and electrochemical CO2 conversion technologies towards net-zero emissions

The escalating challenges posed by extreme climate change and the rapid greenhouse effect have heightened stress and urgency among governments, researchers, and the public. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, particularly carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), have significantly contributed to rising atmospheric temperatures, with agriculture, forestry, and industrial activities accounting for 22 % and 17 % of global emissions, respectively. In 2022, global GHG emissions reached 53.8 Gt CO 2 eq, underscoring the critical need for net-zero technologies and a circular carbon economy. This review systematically evaluates the efficiencies of non-thermal and electrochemical CO 2 conversion technologies, including plasma, artificial photosynthesis, and electrochemical methods, for achieving net-zero emissions. These advanced technologies offer promising pathways for converting CO 2 into value-added chemicals, such as syngas, methanol, and formic acid, while reducing atmospheric CO 2 concentrations. However, upscaling these technologies from laboratory to industrial scales presents significant challenges, including high energy consumption, economic feasibility, and environmental impacts. The review highlights the mechanisms of CO 2 conversion, economic considerations, and the potential for industrial implementation. Priority research directions are identified, focusing on ecological footprints, green supply chains, and the integration of renewable energy sources. By addressing these challenges, non-thermal and electrochemical CO 2 conversion technologies can play a pivotal role in mitigating climate change and advancing toward a sustainable, circular carbon economy. Overview of non-thermal and electrochemical CO 2 conversion technologies: challenges, benefits, and pathways to industrial implementation. • Plasma, artificial photosynthesis, and electrochemical methods convert CO 2 into value-added chemicals like syngas and methanol, reducing GHG emissions. • Plasma achieves, artificial photosynthesis, and electrochemical methods have achieved high CO 2 conversion, but industrial scaling remains challenging. • These technologies align with renewable energy, offering scalability and rapid response for decentralized use. • High energy use, costs, and environmental impacts hinder industrial adoption, requiring cost-effective solutions. • Focus on reactor optimization, ecological footprints, green supply chains, and life cycle assessments for a circular carbon economy and net-zero goals.