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Green Chemistry

I have never thought about chemistry in a sustainable way and it was really interesting to learn about this as it was a new concept for me. My favorite part was learning about the difference between green chemistry and cleaning up pollution. Green chemistry reduces pollution while cleaning up pollution includes cleaning up environmental spills (and other releases) and treating waste streams. I think green chemistry is great for human health by providing cleaner water, air, increased safety for workers in the chemical industry, safer consumer products, safer food, and less exposure to chemicals. Green chemistry reduces the risk of exposure to chemicals of concern to human health and the environment across life cycle. It helps reduce exposure across the globe and aims to have healthier communities, materials, products, people and planet. The 12 principles really helped me better understand how green chemistry reduces risk and minimizes environmental footprint. They serve as a wonderful checklist of ways to reduce both the environmental impact and the potential negative health effects of chemicals. 

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