Abstract: A novel catalytic process is provided for the controlled degradation of organic materials into environmentally compatible products comprising at least carbon dioxide. The process employs a solid catalyst comprising at least one transition element and a peroxide to form a reaction mixture with the organic material which is degraded in the presence of photoenergy absorbable by the catalyst. The catalytic process has multiple applications including the purification of organic solvents; the regeneration of granular activated carbon; the purification of potable water and industrial waste water; and the elimination of organic hazardous and/or toxic substances from collected wastes.