Our world is made up of a system of systems. On the most fundamental level we have atoms and physical, chemical, and electronic forces working together to form more complex structures and interactions. These systems support increasingly more complex organisms and objects that populate our planet, one small rock in an even larger solar system. But what happens when systems are out of equilibrium? At the cellular level we see disease states and dysfunction. On a macro scale we see environmental destruction, species loss, and displaced peoples. Systemic harmony is critical to stability and homeostasis. So what happens when chemistry is practiced in isolation from the system of systems that it influences? We only need to look around to see evidence of the unintended consequences of practicing chemistry without taking a systems-level view into account. Multiple environmental effects from the use of perfluoroalkyl substances, brominated flame retardants in textiles, mercury in high efficiency light bulbs, etc., provide just a few examples.<br/><br/>Systems thinking in biology and engineering are commonly used phrases and a normal part of the curriculum, but what does systems thinking mean in the chemistry context? In this presentation we will discuss how the comprehensive application of green and sustainable chemistry and engineering concepts and practices can enable a systems thinking approach to chemistry. We’ll also discuss how green chemistry core competencies can provide a framework for chemistry educators to bring these ideas into the classroom.

Green & sustainable chemistry as a systems thinking approach to chemistry education

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.