Catalyst-aided carbonization of sucrose to produce functionalized layered carbon materials exhibiting excellent proton conductivity is reported. Structural control during synthesis and post-synthetic functionalization introduces abundant oxygenated groups, enhancing proton conductivity. The resulting materials demonstrate high conductivity under humid conditions, offering potential for energy storage and electrochemical applications. More details can be found in article number e202500288 by Shinya Hayami, Md. Saidul Islam, and co-workers.