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  • Glossary item | Last updated: 04 Apr 2024

Green chemistry

Green chemistry, also known as sustainable chemistry, is the design of chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the use or generation of hazardous substances. Green chemistry applies across the life cycle of a chemical product, including its design, manufacture, and use.

Anastas, PT., Warner, J., 1998, Green Chemistry. Theory and Practice, Oxford University Press, New York; US EPA, 2011, Green Chemistry Research. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Source category: Agency Documents; Scientific & Technical Literature


Design of chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the use or generation of substances hazardous to humans, animals, plants, and the environment.

Vert, M., Y. Doi, et al. (IUPAC Polymer Division) 2012, 'Terminology for biorelated polymers and applications (IUPAC Recommendations 2012)', Pure Applied Chemistry 84 (2), pp. 377-410.

Source category: Scientific & Technical Literature