This study seeks to understand the perceptions of young adults regarding the growing field of green chemistry. During the pilot study, an electronic survey was created consisting of statements and open-ended questions pertaining to consumer spending habits and green chemistry using a Likert-type scale.  There were 65 student participants from Bridgewater State University and Brown University. When asked about purchasing decisions, social science majors were more likely to consider environmentally friendly production practices/packaging and non-toxic ingredients than natural science majors. However, more natural science majors had heard of and had a better understanding of green chemistry than did social science majors. Using the preliminary survey data, I redesigned the survey for broader distribution, and included questions that more specifically target the choices of different majors. These results may influence corporate policies, legislation, and green chemistry education.  This research was supported by a grant from the BSU Center for Sustainability.

Green chemistry: An analysis of public opinion

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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