Lifecycle analysis of marine renewable energy infrastructures: Sustainable futures

• Offshore REIs have significant potential to mitigate climate change and meet rising energy demands. • China’s ambitious offshore wind, solar, and wave/tidal projects are driving substantial energy capacity growth. • Global legal frameworks are essential for balancing ecosystem protection with MRE development. • Monetizing offshore energy operations generates data that bridges scientific and technological gaps. • LCA is pivotal for developing sustainable, cost-effective technologies with minimal environmental impact. Marine renewable energy (MRE) infrastructures offer significant potential to address global energy needs and mitigate climate change, yet they currently contribute only a small portion of electricity production. The growing reliance on non-renewable resources increases CO 2 emissions, necessitating a shift toward sustainable future solutions. While MRE infrastructures present opportunities for sustainable development, they face interdisciplinary challenges, including high costs, technological barriers, environmental impacts, and governance issues. This review focuses on lifecycle assessments of MRE infrastructures, aiming to reduce their ecological footprint and inform decision-makers. Key challenges include the need for advanced materials, improved resource assessments, and stronger regulatory frameworks. Future collaborative efforts between researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders are essential for overcoming these barriers and unlocking the full potential of MRE infrastructures for sustainable energy.