A simple, green, and scalable methodology has been developed for the formation of hollow porous SiO2 nanobelts, which demonstrates high reversible capacities, excellent capacity retention, and high rate capability as an anode for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). The facile synthetic approach and superior Li-storage capabilities of hollow porous SiO2 nanobelts make it an ideal anodic candidate for advanced LIBs with high energy density, long cycle life, and high power density. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.