CO2 electrochemical reduction to formic acid: An overview of process sustainability

CO₂ Electrochemical Reduction (CO₂ ECR) is a promising technology that converts CO₂ into value-added products, including formic acid, ethanol, and methanol, by applying external voltage. This technology is not only considered a CO₂ mitigation process but a process that produces value-added chemicals reducing dependence on fossil fuels. This review assesses the sustainability of the CO₂ ECR process by focusing on life cycle assessment and techno-economic evaluation studies. Recent advances in catalysts and cell structures for CO₂ ECR are also discussed from a sustainability perspective. Furthermore, the integration of CO₂ ECR with renewable resources as a power source is highlighted. The review aims to determine the sustainability of CO₂ conversion for formic acid production and to provide guidelines for future advancements. Research gaps and challenges are also provided.