Low-Carbon Materials: Genesis, Thoughts, Case Study, and Perspectives

Abstract

This study focuses the attention on clean energy and low-carbon materials as key enablers in circular economy (CE) transition and a more sustainable path of human development. Environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive economic growth has been suggested by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals since 1990s. Diverse stakeholders including governments, companies, international organizations, and scientific community are taking action in favor of the CE model. The long-sought sustainable development and CE goals encompass all endeavors of human beings. Currently clean energy transition is well defined in a broader global policy framework in many countries and areas to tackle the climate challenges, whereas materials with a low-carbon footprint are receiving less attention. This opinion article is aimed at critically reviewing the genesis; enabling conditions, some applications, and descriptions of low-carbon materials; and suggesting a way forward along with policy implications.