 In this video from the 2011 Falling Walls Conference, Paul Chirik introduces the philosophy of green chemistry as a means of combating the plague of pollution. Chirik’s work in designing products and processes that minimize the use and generation of hazardous substances has been recognized by institutions like the New York Academy of Sciences and the American Chemical Society. His research group at Princeton University is focused on discovering transition metal catalyzed reactions that reduce fossil fuel consumption, use base rather than precious metals, and minimize waste streams—as well as on developing new synthetic methods for the conversion of atmospheric nitrogen into more value-added chemicals and the replacement of heavy metals in organic synthesis and catalysis with Earth-abundant elements. While this holistic sustainable approach to chemistry already boasts of important industrial applications, it also promises long-term environmental and geopolitical impact. (16 minutes)
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