To realize sustainable growth, the energy demand and environmental impact of chemical processes need to be reduced. Multifunctional membrane reactors (MRs) are a feasible way to shift the industrial catalysis towards novel intensified processes, since they combine a chemical reaction with a membrane-based separation. Compared to traditional, sequential reaction-separation systems, MRs require less energy, show increased productivity and reduced by-product formation, easier down-and up-stream processing, compact process equipment as well as the possibility of heat recovery and catalyst recycling.