Green Chemistry

Green chemistry focuses on chemical research and engineering that encourages the design of products and processes that minimize the use and generation of hazardous substances. It began shortly after the pollution prevention act was passed in 1990. Although it has been a gradual process, it was that event that caused the office of pollution prevention to start developing products that were less dangerous for humans and the environment. The EPA’s (Environmental Protection Agency) mission statement/goal for Green Chemistry is to “implement innovative chemical technologies that accomplish pollution prevention in a scientifically sound and cost-effective manner.”

To me, the purpose of Green chemistry is to be respectful to the earth. Educating government agencies, schools, factories, households etc. on ways to properly dispose of substances is critical. This approach is different from previous ways of going out problems in chemistry. The EPA acknowledges that humans are going to use chemicals no matter what, so asking that they neutralize a solution with vinegar, baking soda, or water before sending it down the drain, is a way that both parties win.

In the mid 90’s, John Warner and Paul Anastas developed the twelve principles of Green Chemistry, which consist of: Prevention, Atom Economy, Less Hazardous Chemical Syntheses, Designing Safer Chemicals, Safer Solvents and Auxiliaries, Design for Energy Efficiency, Use of Renewable Feedstock, Reduce Derivatives, Catalysis, Design for Degradation, Real-time analysis for Pollution Prevention, and Inherently Safer Chemistry for Accident Prevention. Essentially, these values apply “reduce, reuse, recycle” to chemistry. Use fewer chemicals, be smart about reusing substances, and produce safer products that can ultimately be put back in the environment (recycle).

I am fortunate enough to be friends with a green chemist who focuses on reducing derivatives, designing for degradation, and promoting