Green Chemistry

Green Chemistry, also known as sustainable chemistry, is a design philosophy that seeks to reduce or eliminate the use and generation of hazardous substances throughout the entire lifecycle of a chemical product. Guided by twelve core principles, it promotes innovations such as waste prevention, the use of renewable resources, increased energy efficiency, and the design of safer, biodegradable chemicals. As a highly interdisciplinary field, green chemistry integrates chemical knowledge with environmental science, engineering, and economics to develop sustainable solutions that protect human health and the environment while remaining economically viable.

1. Introduction to Green Chemistry
   1. Defining Green Chemistry
      1. Core Philosophy and Goals
      2. Pollution Prevention Paradigm
      3. Resource Efficiency Principles
      4. Hazard Reduction Strategies
   2. Distinction from Environmental Chemistry
      1. Process Design Focus
      2. Environmental Impact Assessment Differences
      3. Proactive vs Reactive Approaches
      4. Scope and Methodology Comparisons
   3. Historical Development
      1. Early Environmental Awareness
      2. Key Scientific Milestones
      3. The Pollution Prevention Act of 1990
      4. Legislative Background and Impact
      5. Evolution as Academic Discipline
      6. Industrial Implementation Timeline
   4. Sustainability Context
      1. Three Pillars of Sustainability
         1. Environmental Protection
         2. Economic Viability
         3. Social Equity
      2. Circular Economy Principles
         1. Waste Minimization
         2. Product Life Extension
         3. Resource Recovery
      3. UN Sustainable Development Goals
         1. Relevant SDGs for Chemistry
         2. Impact Measurement Methods