Role of Chemistry in Environmental Protection

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 Role of Chemistry in Environmental Protection

Chemistry plays a crucial role in environmental protection, as it provides the tools and

knowledge necessary to monitor, remediate, and prevent environmental pollution (Simon et al.,

2019). Chemical engineers can create tools and plans to lessen the effects of human activities on

the environment by studying the chemical interactions and processes that take place in natural

systems. This paper attempts to describe ways in which chemistry can be applied to ensure the

environment is protected from any encroaching activities.

Firstly, chemistry can be used to monitor the pollution levels in the environment. To

determine the degree and severity of environmental contamination, Chemists collect samples of

air, water, and soil and these samples are taken to the labs to be examined for pollutants such as

heavy metals, pesticides, and other dangerous compounds. Using this knowledge, Chemical

engineers and other stakeholders can devise methods to stop more pollution and clean up the

already polluted areas.

In addition, chemistry is used to develop technologies for cleaning up and remediating

contaminated places. This can be done by breaking down pollutants using chemical processes,

whereas contaminants can be drawn from water or soil using absorbent materials such as

activated carbon, zeolites, clays, polymers, biochar etc. depending on the nature of the

contaminants and the specific application. In order to facilitate focused remediation activities,

chemical sensors can also be employed to detect and follow the movement of pollutants (Singh

& Singh, 2017).

Furthermore, chemistry can also support sustainable practices by creating new materials

and procedures that use fewer toxic chemicals and waste. This is in line with the green chemistry
theories that encourages the use of regenerative materials and the creation of chemical

procedures that reduce waste and pollution. This can aid in minimizing the negative effects of

human activity on the environment and advancing sustainable development.

In conclusion, chemistry will continue to be a significant subject in the development of

sustainable and environmentally friendly technologies and practices. It plays a crucial role in

understanding and addressing environmental concerns. Chemistry can also contribute to reducing

the negative effects of human activity on the environment and fostering a more sustainable future

through its many applications in environmental protection.

 References

Simon, J. A., Abrams, S., Bradburne, T., Bryant, D., Burns, M., Cassidy, D., ... & Wice, R.

(2019). PFAS Experts Symposium: Statements on regulatory policy, chemistry and

analytics, toxicology, transport/fate, and remediation for per‐and polyfluoroalkyl

substances (PFAS) contamination issues. Remediation Journal, 29(4), 31-48.

Singh, A. K., & Singh, R. P. (2017). Chemical Sensors and Biosensors for Environmental

Monitoring: A Review. Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, 10(3), 139-

158.