Protecting the environment through catalysis

Catalysts and catalytic technologies may hold the key to a host of less environmentally harmful products, less polluting processes, and techniques for controlling air pollution. The development of catalysts for the destruction of halogenated hydrocarbons is representative of efforts aimed at this objective. The challenges posed by the need for environmentally benign processes and products offer exciting opportunities for the discovery and development of new catalysts and catalytic technologies. This article outlines current activities in the application of catalysis for environmental protection and identifies future opportunities for research and development.