Green chemistry developed historically as twelve industrial principles for research chemists. Recently, interest has grown to begin introducing these principles in science classrooms even at the middle and high school levels. However, teachers must do significant work to adapt and translate green chemistry from the industrial or manufacturing perspective into one more appropriate to their students at younger ages. This research project explores how a group of middle and high school teachers have been developing their language and understanding of green chemistry through Beyond Benign’s Lead Teacher Program. Transcripts from phone interviews with program participants are analyzed to propose a classroom-based definition of green chemistry and its justification as an approach at the middle and high school levels. This pedagogical understanding provides a foundation to solidify green chemistry as a standard practice in science education.

Developing green chemistry educational principles through the perspective of middle and high school teachers

ACS Spring 2022

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