Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed an innovative zinc-air battery that serves multiple purposes by addressing energy storage challenges, promoting green chemistry, and facilitating environmental remediation. The battery not only stores energy efficiently but also produces hydrogen peroxide in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner. This dual functionality makes it a significant advancement in the field. Traditional lithium-ion batteries, while prevalent, have limitations in storing large amounts of energy and come with high upfront costs, prompting the search for alternatives. The zinc-air technology offers a promising solution due to the accessibility of its major components. In this approach, zinc metal acts as the anode and ambient air as the cathode. The controlled reduction of oxygen at the cathode results in the formation of water or hydrogen peroxide during discharge. The research team, led by Professor Aninda Bhattacharyya, reengineered the battery to selectively produce hydrogen peroxide at the cathode by utilizing a metal-free carbon-based catalyst. This catalyst, along with specific chemical modifications, drives the reaction towards H2O2 formation, eliminating the need for expensive precious metal catalysts. The generated hydrogen peroxide can be utilized for wastewater treatment, particularly in degrading toxic dyes. By leveraging the battery-produced H2O2 to break down dyes, the process becomes more efficient and eco-friendly. This innovative approach not only streamlines hydrogen peroxide synthesis but also contributes to environmental sustainability. The research paves the way for the integration of batteries into diverse applications beyond energy storage, highlighting the potential of such technologies in driving sustainable solutions and promoting green practices.