Efficient amination strategies for synthesis of N-heterocycles from functional molecules (bottom-up) or from biomass (top-down) via sustainable C–N/C–X bond chemistry.

Reaction pathways for conversion of agricultural waste biomass into formic acid are reviewed for established (fast pyrolysis, acid hydrolysis, wet oxidation, catalytic oxidation), and cutting-edge (photocatalysis, electrocatalysis) methods.

Electrochemical conversion of nitrate (NO₃ ⁻) to ammonia (NH₃) is a promising approach for removing NO₃ ⁻ contamination in water bodies as well as for producing NH₃ necessary for agriculture. The electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction (NO₃RR) uses renewable electricity as its energy source, operates under mild operating conditions, has low carbon emissions and is environmentally sustainable. Herein, we review the application of carbon-based electrocatalysts in NO₃RR, including pure carbon materials, heteroatom doping or metal-bonding catalysts, and carbon substrate-supported composites. Fabrication methods, reaction pathways, mechanisms, experimental techniques and theory used in carbon-based electrocatalysts are critically analyzed and practical limitations are identified for industrial settings. Design aspects of catalyst structure are recommended for realizing NO₃RR with carbon-based electrocatalysts and achieving clean and efficient large-scale production of green ammonia.