Advances in homogeneous catalysts for CO ₂ reduction: A mini-review

The catalytic reduction of carbon dioxide (CO[Formula: see text] constitutes a pivotal strategy for addressing energy sustainability and environmental challenges. Homogeneous catalysts, with well-defined structures, tunable active sites, and mechanistically transparent pathways, offer significant advantages for achieving selective CO 2 transformation. This mini-review summarizes recent progress in homogeneous catalytic systems designed for the selective production of carbon monoxide (CO) and formic acid (HCOOH) from CO 2 . Inspired by the structural and functional attributes of natural enzymes, particularly carbon monoxide dehydrogenase (CODH) and formate dehydrogenase (FDH), we highlight biomimetic design strategies that enhance catalytic efficiency and selectivity. Moreover, the interplay between reduction overpotential and product selectivity is examined, underscoring its crucial role in catalyst optimization. Finally, we propose forward-looking design principles and emerging research directions for the development of highly efficient and selective CO 2 reduction catalysts.