Green approaches in the synthesis and reactivity of benzofuran derivatives: a comprehensive review

The development of benzofuran derivatives through green chemistry approaches has emerged as a sustainable and efficient alternative to conventional synthetic methods. This review critically surveys recent progress (2014–2025) in environmentally benign strategies for constructing the benzofuran nucleus, with particular emphasis on protocols aligned with green chemistry principles. Analysis of the reported literature reveals a clear shift towards solvent-free, metal-free, and energy-efficient methodologies, significantly reducing reaction time and environmental burden while maintaining high efficiency and selectivity. Key advancements include electrochemical and cascade reactions, nanocatalytic systems, and oxide-based catalysts, which collectively demonstrate improved atom economy and reduced waste generation. Moreover, the review highlights mechanistic insights, comparative efficiencies, and existing limitations, thereby identifying future opportunities for the sustainable design of benzofuran derivatives in pharmaceutical and materials science applications. It focuses on representative and mechanistically insightful green synthetic strategies for benzofuran derivatives, rather than providing an exhaustive survey of all emerging green technologies.