Alkaline catalysts are substances that speed up chemical reactions in basic (alkaline) environments. They often contain hydroxide ions, which help facilitate reactions by providing a more favorable environment for reactants to interact. These catalysts are commonly used in processes like biodiesel production and organic synthesis. One of the key advantages of alkaline catalysts is their ability to operate at lower temperatures compared to acidic catalysts. This can lead to energy savings and reduced production costs. Additionally, alkaline catalysts are often more environmentally friendly, making them a popular choice in green chemistry applications.