Question

How will green chemistry help decrease environmental pollution?

Answer 1

The release of different harmful chemicals (particulates, gases, organic and inorganic wastes) causes environmental pollution. In green chemistry, the reactants to be used in chemical reactions are chosen in such a way that the yield of the end products is up to 100%. This prevents or limits chemical pollutants from being introduced into the environment. Through the efforts of green chemists, H₂O₂ has replaced tetrachlorethane and chlorine gas in drying and bleaching of paper.

Answer 2

Green chemistry is a way of thinking and is about utilising the existing knowledge and principles of chemistry and other sciences to reduce the adverse effect of pollution.

For example:

• Automobile engines have been fitted with catalytic converters which prevent the release of the vapours of hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen into acrolein and peroxyacetyl nitrate.
• CO₂ has replaced CFCs as blowing agents in the manufacture of polystyrene foam sheets.