Selective Catalytic Synthesis Using the Combination of Carbon Dioxide and Hydrogen: Catalytic Chess at the Interface of Energy and Chemistry

The present Review highlights the challenges and opportunities when using the combination CO2/H2 as a C1 synthon in catalytic reactions and processes. The transformations are classified according to the reduction level and the bond‐forming processes, covering the value chain from high volume basic chemicals to complex molecules, including biologically active substances. Whereas some of these concepts can facilitate the transition of the energy system by harvesting renewable energy into chemical products, others provide options to reduce the environmental impact of chemical production already in today's petrochemical‐based industry. Interdisciplinary fundamental research from chemists and chemical engineers can make important contributions to sustainable development at the interface of the energetic and chemical value chain. The present Review invites the reader to enjoy this exciting area of “catalytic chess” and maybe even to start playing some games in her or his laboratory. The catalytic gambit: The combined use of CO2 and H2 as building blocks in catalytic processes provides access to products ranging from large volume base chemicals to highly functionalized complex molecules. The current state‐of‐the‐art is critically reviewed, highlighting pathways that are in line with “green chemistry” principles and offer the potential to harness renewable energy into the chemical value chain.