green chemistry

This book aims to introduce the reader to the design, development, and evaluation processes of new Green Chemistry methodologies. A comprehensive introductory text, it takes a broad view of the subject and integrates a wide variety of topics. Topics covered include: alternative feedstocks, environmentally benign synthetic methodologies, designing safer chemical products, new reaction conditions, alternative solvents and catalyst development, and the use of biosynthesis and biomimetic principles.

This collection celebrates the enduring legacy of Roger Sheldon, a pioneering figure whose vision helped define modern green chemistry. Driven by a commitment to reduce chemical waste and improve industrial practices, Sheldon’s work bridged academia and industry, introducing transformative concepts such as the E‑factor and advancing catalysis and biocatalysis as tools for sustainability. Beyond his scientific achievements, he was a generous mentor and inspiring communicator whose clarity of thought and enthusiasm shaped generations of researchers.

Research into renewable chemicals, fuels and materials sourced from the oceans at Memorial University and elsewhere is employing green chemical technologies for the transformation of algae and food industry waste streams into useful products. A very small proportion of biomass utilization research is currently focused on these feedstocks and efforts focused in this area could reduce land space competition between food and chemical/fuel production.