The catalysis of chemical reactions plays a pivotal role in solving the challenges faced by chemical industry in the 21st century. Many chemical transformations become only possible by employing catalysts or their efficiency is significantly improved in comparison to the non-catalytic reaction, especially with regard to energy consumption, product selectivity, and prevention/reduction of stoichiometric reagents. New catalytic transformations can replace multi-step „classical“ reaction sequences with often significant reduction in the amount of waste generated (reagents, solvents, side-products). Catalytic processes can also often replace highly reactive and/or toxic reagents by less hazardous chemicals. Ideally, these processes should utilize environemtally benign, renewable feedstock. Catalytic chemistry makes significant contributions towards these goals of green chemistry and sustainable chemistry.