2.3 The wider impact of chemistry

Question 1

What is meant by the term carbon neutrality?

Answer 1

Carbon neutrality means that a chemical process overall does not increase the levels of CO2. This is managed by offsetting CO2 increases by planting trees and sugar cane etc thus using photosynthesis to absorb CO2 thus resulting in 0 net gain of carbon.

Question 2

List 6 aspects of green chemistry:

Answer 2

• Renewable raw materials
• Saving energy
• High atom economy
• Catalysts
• Toxic materials and solvents (avoid)
• Biodegradable products