Renewable methanol resources to achieve energy transition goals and environmental sustainability in the Gladstone (Australia) industrial hub – A review

The shift to sustainable energy systems is crucial in response to climate change and declining fossil fuel reserves. This thorough review examines routes to renewable methanol production, highlighting its significance in achieving energy transition targets and advancing environmental sustainability. Renewable methanol, produced from biomass, absorbs carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) from industrial emissions, and renewable hydrogen offers a viable alternative to conventional, carbon-intensive methanol produced from fossil fuels. Although international research on renewable methanol is growing, a notable gap remains in its use in regions in regions with industrial hubs (such as Gladstone, Australia), where no prior evaluations have been conducted. The paper analyses various renewable methanol production methods, emphasising the integration of these resources, which significantly reduces emissions. This integration positions renewable methanol as a pivotal sustainable energy source for achieving energy transition and climate goals in regional hubs such as Gladstone. It also discusses cross-sector applications, such as marine fuels and energy storage, positioning renewable methanol as a key enabler of circular economy models. Challenges related to cost, scalability, and regulatory support are identified, alongside innovations in process integration. According to the life cycle assessment discussed in this review, renewable methanol produced through the integration of renewable sources can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90 % relative to fossil-based methanol. The findings lay a foundation for future research in any industrial hub and highlight the strategic role of renewable methanol in the transition of both regional and global energy systems. • Integration of Renewable Energy Sources for Green Methanol Production. • Environmental Impacts and Sustainability of Green Methanol. • Technological Developments and Innovations in Green Methanol Production. • Market Scalability and Global Adoption of green methanol. • Energy Transition and Green Methanol.