SDG Detail

CHEM 260 : Introduction to Green Chemistry

Undergraduate course

Project description

This is an introductory course in Green Chemistry. It covers topics that are central to Green Chemistry including an introduction to the development of Green Chemistry, definitions and metrics, prevention of pollution at source through new and sustainable synthetic methods, real world case studies including the clothing industry, enzymes as biocatalysts, renewable feedstocks as well as recycling, and pure water. Innovative group and individual coursework assignments are designed to develop skills in communication and engagement and to develop an understanding of social and environmental responsibilities within the broad area of Green Chemistry.

Year 2022

Location New Zealand

Organization University of Auckland

Project aims

Project outcome

By the end of this course, students will be able to: Develop and demonstrate knowledge pertaining to the background and development of Green Chemistry (Capability 1 and 2) Understand and apply knowledge of the common metrics used in Green Chemistry applications. (Capability 1, 2 and 3) Understand and apply knowledge of introductory green chemical synthetic methods, choice of solvents, atom economy, and sustainable raw materials. (Capability 1, 2 and 3) Understand and explain selected real world examples of Green Chemistry including applications in the clothing industry, insecticides, pharmaceutical manufacture and anti-fouling agents. (Capability 1, 2, 3 and 4) Understand and apply the concepts of biocatalysis, with selected examples including the sustainable synthesis of adipic acid, the use of detergent proteases, and the production of healthier fats and oils by enzymatic interesterification for production oils and fats (Capability 1, 2 and 3) Develop and demonstrate knowledge about the importance of using renewable feedstocks and recycling and selected examles of these as well as the basic concepts of a "bio-refinery" (Capability 1, 2 and 3) Develop skills in communication and engagement by competing a range of assignments designed to give practice and experience in developing audio-visual materials, presenting to large groups and engaging in open discussions and debates on topics relevant to Green Chemical Science. (Capability 4 and 5) Develop and demonstrate knowledge that directly impacts on the Social and Environmental Responsibilities associated with the development and application of science and technology (Capability 6) Develop critical thinking skills that will enable commercial, industrial and social practices to be analyzed from a sustainability perspective and solutions to identified problems developed. (Capability 2 and 3)