CO 2 Conversion Toward Real‐World Applications: Electrocatalysis versus CO 2 Batteries

Abstract Electrochemical carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) conversion technologies have become new favorites for addressing environmental and energy issues, especially with direct electrocatalytic reduction of CO 2 (ECO 2 RR) and alkali metal‐CO 2 (M–CO 2 ) batteries as representatives. They are poised to create new economic drivers while also paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future for humanity. Although still far from practical application, ECO 2 RR has been intensively investigated over the last few years, with some achievements. In stark contrast, M–CO 2 batteries, especially aqueous and hybrid M–CO 2 batteries, offer the potential to combine energy storage and ECO 2 RR into an integrated system, but their research is still in the early stages. This article gives an insightful review, comparison, and analysis of recent advances in ECO 2 RR and M–CO 2 batteries, illustrating their similarities and differences, aiming to advance their development and innovation. Considering the crucial role of well‐designed functional materials in facilitating ECO 2 RR and M–CO 2 batteries, special attention is paid to the development of rational design strategies for functional materials and components, such as electrodes/catalysts, electrolytes, and membranes/separators, at the industrial level and their impact on CO 2 conversion. Moreover, future perspectives and research suggestions for ECO 2 RR and M–CO 2 batteries are presented to facilitate practical applications.