The 12 principles of green chemistry
- It is better to prevent the formation of waste than to clean them once formed. (Prevention).
- Synthetic methods should be designed to maximize the incorporation into the final product of all materials used in the process. (Atomic economics).
- Whenever possible, synthetic methodologies should be designed that use and generate substances that are not toxic to health and the environment. (Less dangerous synthesis methods).
- Chemicals should be designed to maintain the effectiveness of their function, but reducing toxicity. (Design of safer products).
- The use of auxiliary substances (for example, solvents, separating agents, etc …) should be unnecessary as far as possible and safe when necessary. (Safer solvents and auxiliaries).
- Energy requirements must be taken into account due to their environmental and economic impact, and must be minimized. Synthetic methods should be performed at room temperature when possible. (Energy efficiency).
- Raw materials should be renewable when possible technically and economically. (Use of renewable raw materials).
- The use and generation of derivatives (blocking groups, protection / deprotection, temporary modification of physical / chemical conditions) should be avoided whenever possible. (Reduce the use of derivatives).
- Catalytic reagents (as selective as possible) are better than stoichiometric reagents. (Catalysis).
- Chemicals should be designed so that their function does not persist in the environment and be degraded to harmless products. (Design for degradation).
- It is necessary to develop analytical methodologies to allow real-time analysis, internal monitoring and control prior to the formation of hazardous substances. (Real time analysis).
- The substances and form of a substance used in a chemical process should be chosen in a way that minimizes the potential for chemical accidents, including leaks, explosions and fires. (Safer chemical synthesis).
“Green Chemistry: Theory and Practice” Paul Anasta y John Warner
