Chlorophyll Enhances Hydrogen Generation Efficiency

The Satoyama Mace Initiative has developed a new photoelectrode for renewable hydrogen production. This electrode uses a chlorophyll and cuprous oxide (Cu₂O) combination. Published in ACS Sustainable Resource Management, the research shows this bio-integrated design significantly boosts photoelectrochemical water splitting. Modified electrodes achieved a 1.37% applied bias photon-to-current efficiency (ABPE). This marks a substantial increase from the 0.82% seen in unmodified versions. Furthermore, the chlorophyll-enhanced electrode demonstrated seven times greater stability during operation. This development aims to link clean energy generation with fair carbon credit systems. The initiative plans to integrate this technology into its SEPLS Carbon Credit Regional Revitalization Center. This center focuses on microalgae-based hydrogen production. It seeks to provide carbon credit income opportunities for indigenous communities. The initiative's broader strategy includes co-producing knowledge and establishing institutional frameworks. It also prioritizes recognizing indigenous territories and restoring ecosystems. Developing sustainable value chains is central to its plan. These efforts address global challenges in renewable energy, biodiversity, and social equity.