Sustainable photonics for energy harvesting and beyond, from solar cells to OLEDs, efficient communication, and smart windows

The development, synthesis of photonic materials and devices requires hazardous-corrosive materials and fabrication processes which consumes tremendous energy, as a result these processes are non-eco-friendly. The current climate change and sustainability concerns have drawn our attention towards this problem. A possible solution to this problem is green photonics, developing eco-friendly materials and process methods. In this article we summarize an overview of emerging trends-technologies and applications in green photonics. In solar photovoltaic cells, Light Emitting Diodes (LED) and Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLED) the application of green methods and LED packaging materials- compounds has increased its efficiency by 3% and reduction of the greenhouse gas emissions. The novel applications of photonic crystals and materials in smart windows for energy harvesting and communication is discussed. The integration of eco-friendly materials and processes in photonics holds immense potential for addressing climate change concerns and advancing sustainable technological solutions across various industries.