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Among the many subfields of chemistry research, green chemistry is a relatively new concept.

Whereas the pharmaceutical industry often has many negative connotations such as; mass waste generation, toxic chemical use, or pollution, green chemistry as a rapidly growing research field can revolutionise the industry for the sake of the environment.

Researchers from the University of Malta are investigating this, giving chemistry a green makeover by advancing chemical reactions.  

THINK magazine goes into detail with Prof Giovanna Bosica from the Department of Chemistry at the University of Malta in their latest issue.

Bosica wants to give the industry a new and greener look. The ultimate aim of her research is that various industries will incorporate these cleaner approaches into their production processes.

One of Bosica’s main priorities in green chemistry is to reduce the amount of waste that a chemical reaction generates. By focusing on multicomponent reactions to reduce steps of the chemical process the team aims to limit the waste produced.

Another crucial measure to achieve green chemistry is to use recyclable materials. Currently, the majority of the industry uses homogeneous catalysts that only work for one reaction. Prof. Bosica and her team are investigating reusable catalysts that can be used several times in order to further reduce waste products.

With large companies such as Monsanto, DuPont, and Pfizer showing interest in implementing green chemistry principles, it is possible to make the chemical industry more sustainable.

The full version of the article can be read in THINK issue 35 or accessed online.

This edition focuses on the concept of preservation. Preservation centers around conservation and protection, whether its of our environment, our heritage, or our knowledge.