Oxygen reduction reaction catalyzed by cobalt(III) complexes of macrocyclic ligands supported on multiwalled carbon nanotubes

► Oxygen reduction reaction in both acidic and alkaline media. ► Synergic effect of multiwalled carbon nanotubes supported catalyst on oxygen reduction reaction. ► Influence of electron withdrawing groups on the metal complexes with noticeable change in the oxygen reduction potential. ► Direct four electron oxygen reduction mechanism in mild acidic, neutral and alkaline conditions.