Our goal in this course is to introduce students to the principles of green chemistry as well as explore the application of these principles in weekly “case studies” of common industrial and consumer products alongside exploring why and how industries invest in sustainable methods and manufacture environmental-friendly products in order to reduce their overall production cost. For many industries, switching from a coal-based energy source to renewable resources initially increases the costs of energy, though due to money reallocated from air-purifiers and waste management, this change actually increases the overall profit margins. Green chemistry practices on an industrial scale are economically and environmentally beneficial. By the end of this course, the students will have a more nuanced understanding of the potential harm associated with household products, how companies can utilize sustainability methods to maximize profits and reduce their waste impacts, and a new perspective on our reliance on useful chemicals in everyday life. Finally, students will be able to use what they have learned as a framework to evaluate products not covered in the course.

This class is directed towards everyone interested in the fundamental chemistry, economics, and investment of industries in sustainability behind consumer products.

Grading Procedures: (P/NP); 60% needed to pass the class; 20% discussion (attendance), 60% Quizzes, 20% Final Project

Attendance and Tardiness: Attendance will be checked by roll call in class. Tardiness of more than 20 minutes will be considered as a class not attended.