Green Chemistry

I do support the idea and the main principles of Green Chemistry! It does make me feel better when I know that there is such a vital organization, full of professionals, which takes care of the environment, provide a scientific base, review and consider environmental policies and overall helps us in protecting and maintaining the healthy environment! 




When I think of examples of Green Chemistry, I first think of the examples of bottled water, as it explained in the video and as we discussed in class and in previous modules. Secondly, my topic of interest (the overuse of antimicrobial products) falls into this category. There are campaigns and calls to action regarding the reduction of routine use of antimicrobial agents. Triclosan was also banned in some products, and there are already existing regulatory policies about the use of this ingredient. 
I also think that the 12 principles of Green Chemistry are quite comprehensive and well-designed. However, principle #11 attracted my attention: 
Analyze in real time to prevent pollution: Include in-process, real-time monitoring and control during syntheses to minimize or eliminate the formation of byproducts.
As a huge fan of prevention and a believer in the benefits of preventive measures, I think that we need to emphasize this principle. There might be a need I more campaigns and educational materials for the public. Educating and informing the public is always one of the most effective ways of helping individuals making personal healthier choices. Like with bottled water, we probably cannot completely eliminate it from our modern life, but we definitely can reduce the use of bottled water by talking to the public.