The photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide (CO₂) into energy-dense fuels using visible light provides a sustainable approach for solar-to-chemical energy transformation. Among the diverse metal molecular systems developed, ruthenium(II) (Ru(II)) complexes have emerged as promising catalysts due to their superior redox properties, strong visible light absorption, and customizable ligand structures. This review explores recent advances in Ru(II)-catalyzed CO₂ photoreduction, with particular attention given to catalyst design strategies, mechanistic pathways, and system integration methodologies. Key configurations, including photosensitizer/catalyst (PS/Cat) mixed systems, covalently bonded dyads, and hybrid/supramolecular frameworks, are evaluated in terms of efficiency, turnover numbers (TON), and selectivity. A critical analysis of challenges such as competing H₂ generation, inefficient charge transfer, and limited long-term stability is presented. Emerging trends toward the use of pincer ligands, transition metal integration, and self-photosensitizing frameworks are discussed as potential approaches for improving efficiency. Overall, this review offers insights into the structural and mechanistic features driving CO₂ photoreduction and provides perspectives for the rational design of next-generation Ru-based photocatalytic systems for efficient solar CO₂ conversion.

Natural fiber-reinforced biopolymer composites are an attractive class of materials owing to their renewability, sustainability, and eco-friendliness. Meanwhile, fused deposition modeling (FDM) is transforming the manufacturing industry and gaining popularity for fabricating intricate and customized geometries that are difficult to produce with traditional techniques. Recently, FDM printing of natural fiber-reinforced PLA composites (NFRPCs) has emerged as a promising approach for developing sustainable green composites with potential application across diverse fields. This review comprehensively examines recent advances in the development of FDM-printed NFRPCs, with particular emphasis on mechanical and tribological properties. In addition, the review examines life cycle assessment (LCA) studies to evaluate the environmental sustainability of FDM-printed NFRPCs and identifies important gaps that require further investigation. Challenges associated with the processing of NFRPCs, including printability, interfacial adhesion, and optimal printing parameters, are also highlighted. Finally, future research directions are proposed to facilitate the development of high-performance, printable, and environmentally sustainable NFRPCs.