Sustainable Aqueous Zn-ion Batteries: Green Materials, Low-Carbon Manufacturing, and Circular Economy

Sustainable aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) have emerged as promising next-generation energy storage solutions, aligning with global initiatives to mitigate climate change and promote low-carbon transitions. Their appeal stems from the utilization of earth-abundant materials and aqueous electrolytes, which minimize reliance on scarce metals and alleviate the safety and environmental risks associated with organic-solvent-based systems. This review systematically evaluates the sustainability of AZIBs throughout their entire life cycle, encompassing material selection, cell manufacturing, operational use, and end-of-life recycling, while providing a forward-looking perspective on their advancement. However, critical hurdles to industrialization persist, including zinc dendrite growth, cathode dissolution, and restricted cycle life. To realize genuine sustainability, future research must prioritize green material innovations, such as bio-based binders, functional separators, and eco-friendly electrolytes, while implementing dry electrode fabrication and other low-impact manufacturing techniques. Adopting a comprehensive life-cycle approach guided by circular economy principles is vital for fostering synergistic optimization across design, production, use, and recycling, ultimately achieving a "cradle-to-cradle" system. Furthermore, supportive policies, cross-sector collaboration, and international standardization are essential to bridge the gap between laboratory research and large-scale application. Through systematic, multi-faceted innovation, sustainable AZIBs are well-positioned to drive the global energy transition.