The push for green chemistry and sustainability in education has gained momentum over the past few decades, with a growing recognition of the impact of chemistry on human health and the environment. Despite progress in incorporating green chemistry principles into curricula, there are still critical knowledge gaps that need to be addressed.
To address these gaps, the American Chemical Society (ACS) recently held the Second Annual ACS Sustainability Summit: Reimagining Chemistry Education in December 2023. The summit brought together educators and thought leaders from around the world to discuss the importance of integrating green chemistry and sustainability concepts into chemistry education at all levels.
Key discussions at the summit focused on the need for training that equips chemists and engineers with the skills necessary to contribute to achieving sustainable development goals. Some of the critical skills identified include life-cycle analysis, hazard assessment, and the ability to scale reactions from lab to plant.
Industry leaders are also stepping up to support green chemistry education. For example, MilliporeSigma is providing education in green chemistry through tailored programs for K-12 students and teacher training opportunities. The ACS Green Chemistry Institute Pharmaceutical Roundtable has developed an online resource, the Green Chemistry and Engineering Learning Platform, to provide training in advanced green chemistry tools.
In addition to industry collaborations, ACS is encouraging the incorporation of green and sustainable chemistry into academic curricula. New guidelines set to go into effect in 2025 will incentivize academics to include more green chemistry in their programs. Resources like the Green Chemistry “Systems Thinking in Chemistry” module and workshops offered at ACS national meetings are also available to support educators in integrating green chemistry into their teaching.
As the call for green and sustainable chemistry grows louder, it is clear that a collective effort from educators and stakeholders is needed to ensure that future chemists are equipped with the skills to address sustainability challenges. The journey towards green chemistry education is ongoing, but with continued collaboration and dedication, we can pave the way for a more sustainable future.