Contributions of Green Energy Materials to Sustainable Development Goals

The global shift toward renewable and green energy highlights the critical role of green energy materials in achieving sustainability goals. This paper focuses on how these materials contribute to the three pillars of sustainability: environmental, economic, and social, in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Green energy materials, including photovoltaic materials, thermoelectric materials, electrochemical storage materials, and other materials appear to play a vital role in meeting these pillars. It is found that using these materials, green and renewable energy is projected to contribute up to 55% of global electricity use by 2030. Green energy materials have achieved the three pillars of sustainability. Environmentally, they help to mitigate climate change, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and protect ecosystems. Economically, these materials foster innovation, create jobs and opportunities, and stimulate economic growth within the green energy sector. Socially, they improve the living standards by providing access to clean energy, reducing health risks, while supporting the development of sustainable cities and communities. By aligning with sustainable development goals, such as clean water, climate action, economic growth, and affordable energy, green energy materials are necessary for achieving a sustainable future. Despite these advances, widespread adoption remains hindered by economic, policy, and technological barriers. Therefore, there is a need for integrative policies, improved lifecycle analysis, and inclusive access to green energy technologies to ensure equitable transition and global sustainability.