In recent years, India has explored new techniques of farming, obtaining good quality seeds and irrigation. There is increasing use of fertilizers and pesticides in order to become self-sufficient in the context of food generation. The over-exploitation of soil and excessive use of fertilizers has deteriorated the quality of soil, air and water. We cannot stop the methods of development but look for methods which will help in reducing environmental pollution. Hence, the concept of green chemistry comes into the picture. It aims at minimizing the use and generation of hazardous substances.
Green chemistry is the process of thinking and utilizing existing knowledge to reduce the adverse impact of pollution on the environment. Green chemistry can also be thought of as a production process which will reduce pollution in the environment. During any process, by-products are generated and if not utilized properly then they add to the environmental pollution. These processes are cost ineffective if the by-products are not utilized. Waste generation and disposal are economically unsound processes. The utilization of knowledge for reducing chemical hazards with the development activities is the foundation of green chemistry.
In a chemical reaction, if the entire chemical reactants are converted into useful products then no chemical waste will be generated. Hence, the environment will be free from any pollution. This can only be achieved if the conditions are optimized for the reaction. Green chemistry has many applications in our day-to-day life. The following points will show its uses:
1. Dry cleaning of clothes – In earlier days tetrachloroethylene was used as a solvent for dry cleaning. This compound is carcinogenic and also pollutes the groundwater. Nowadays, liquefied carbon dioxide with suitable detergent is used for this purpose. It generates liquid carbon dioxide as a by-product and hence causes less pollution.
2. Bleaching of paper – Initially chlorine gas was used for this purpose but now it has been replaced by hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide along with a suitable catalyst which promotes its bleaching action is used.
Green chemistry is promoting a healthy environment for human society. Being responsible citizens we all should follow this. A world free from pollution will improve living conditions and increase the age of life on this planet.
We have seen the importance of green chemistry and its application in daily life. For any further query please install BYJU’S the learning app and explore the world of learning in the most innovative ways.
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