What is Green Chemistry?
Green chemistry describes the process of eliminating or reducing the use of hazardous chemicals before they end up in products on our store shelves. Creating products without toxic chemicals is the surest way to avoid pollution. Green chemistry complements and taps the momentum of existing green building, green energy and other “green" consumer initiatives by offering another way to help grow the green economy here in Oregon.
With funding from the EPA, DEQ has partnered with Beyond Benign and the Oregon Environmental Council to implement green chemistry projects. DEQ conducts outreach to stakeholders, including businesses, nonprofits and government to promote green chemistry as a way to prevent pollution. Following the principles of green chemistry can help your business be more innovative, profitable, and competitive while protecting employees' health and the environment.
Green Chemistry Education – making the next generation safer
DEQ encourages educators to teach students about green chemistry. Beyond Benign offers several opportunities to introduce green chemistry into classrooms such as teacher trainings, K-12 curriculum, and workshops. If you are interested in teaching green chemistry in your classroom, visit the Beyond Benign website