Building a Centre for Sustainable Chemistry

In this video, filmed in September 2013, Rossana Wright talks to colleagues from the School of Chemistry about the role that Chemistry can play in developing a sustainable future, and about the plans for a new Centre for Sustainable Chemistry with a carbon neutral laboratory. Those of you in China can also view this video on our Tudou channel.

In September 2014, shortly after this course finished its second run, the building was destroyed by a devastating fire. Fortunately no-one was hurt and within months the debris had been cleared and construction began again. The building is now due to open in summer 2016. Look here to find out more about our carbon neutral laboratory.

While Chemistry is often viewed as demanding in its need for energy and natural resources, there is much research going on to ensure that Chemistry is safe, efficient and, above all, sustainable – Chemistry that is benign by design.

If you are able to access YouTube, you may find these additional videos by the University of Nottingham’s Professor Sir Martyn Poliakoff interesting:

• Green Chemistry (YouTube 02:31)

• Water bottles and Green Chemistry (YouTube 03:59)

Think about: What do you think should be the priority areas in sustainable chemistry research? Where would you put the money? See if you agree with the priorities of your fellow learners.