A research team led by Professor Jungki Ryu from UNIST, in collaboration with other universities in South Korea, has developed a copper-based catalyst capable of converting CO₂ into high-purity methanol with up to 70% selectivity. This breakthrough offers a promising solution to reducing carbon emissions and producing eco-friendly fuels. The innovative catalyst structure integrates nanoscale copper pyrophosphate particles with pure copper metal, suppressing unwanted byproducts like hydrogen. By mimicking lithium-ion battery discharge principles, the team simplified the catalyst fabrication process and discovered an alternative methanol synthesis pathway. Published in Advanced Materials, the study showcases the potential for large-scale applications and industrial deployment. The research, supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea and the Ministry of Science and ICT, marks a significant advancement in sustainable technology and resource utilization.