Green chemistry: Fundamental Principles and Application for Sustainable Development: a Review

Abstract

“Green Chemistry” is the universally accepted term to describe the movement towards more environmentally acceptable chemical processes and products. Green chemistry, as the name implies, is part of the “greening” of corporate practices that has monoliths like Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., touting “earth-friendly” products. Over the course of the past decade, green chemistry has demonstrated how fundamental scientific methodologies can protect human health and the environment in an economically beneficial manner. In the words of Paul Anastas, who introduced the term 'green chemistry’ in 1991, “It’s more effective, it’s more efficient, it’s more elegant, and it’s simply better chemistry”. Significant progress is being made in several key research areas, such as catalysis, the design of safer chemicals and environmentally benign solvents, and the development of renewable feed stocks. It is an approach to product manufacturing that seeks to reduce or eliminate the use or generation of hazardous substances in the design, manufacture, and application of chemical products. The concept of green chemistry incorporates a new approach to the synthesis, processing and application of chemical substances in such manner as to reduce threats to health and environment. Current and future chemists are being trained to design products and processes with an increased awareness for environmental impact. This article presents applications of green chemistry in everyday life.

Key words: Green Chemistry, Sustainability, Hazardous chemicals, Health