Green Chemistry

This course introduces the field of Green Chemistry, defined as the design of chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the use and generation of hazardous substances. It covers the 12 principles of Green Chemistry developed by Paul Anastas and John C. Warner, exploring their theoretical foundations and their application in commercial sectors including construction, personal care, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. Content is delivered through lectures, assigned readings, and virtual site visits to institutions such as the Warner Babcock Institute. Students examine real-world examples from industry that illustrate how Green Chemistry principles have been applied to improve the sustainability performance of products. The course also explores earlier foundational work in the field, including Rachel Carson's ecological research. By the end of the course, students will have a functional understanding of the Green Chemistry field, a working knowledge of the 12 principles, familiarity with real-world application cases, and an understanding of how Green Chemistry relates to innovation and sustainability in commercial settings. This non-degree course is offered at Technische Universität Berlin in Berlin, Germany.