What do you do if you're a chemical engineer wanting to make a green impact?

Green Chemical Resources are a passion of mine. Renewable Resources grow in Forests and on Organic Farms. Several of these are at the Nanoscale level. Some are direct replacements and superior to Carbon Black in the production of Tires, Hydraulic Hoses, and Inks. Starting out as Wood from select trees these natural polymers of Cellulose, Hemi-Cellulose, Lignin are raw materials for specially designed Pyrolysis reactors with a similar structure as an Aerogel in Nanoscale Chemistry. Controlling the processing parameters to achieve the nanoparticle size, surface morphology, catalytic & stoichiometric properties applies Machine Learning Modeling at its best. To quote Professor Kenneth J Klabunde at KSU, you can't grind to the nanoscale level.

1. Design processes with minimal waste generation and hazardous byproducts. 2. Utilize renewable feedstocks and bio-based materials in chemical synthesis. 3. Optimize reaction conditions to reduce energy consumption and enhance reaction efficiency. 4. Employ catalysis and solvent-free techniques to minimize environmental impact. 5. Prioritize safer chemical alternatives and eco-friendly materials in product development.

As a chemical engineer, I'll be making a green impact by implementing sustainable processes, renewable energy solutions, green chemistry practices, waste management strategies, and water treatment innovations. I would also advocate for a supportive policy framework to drive these initiatives forward.

By applying grewn chemistry you could find a more suitable catalyst way to chemical recycle waste plastic in order for example to produce or distillates or lubricant oils.

Aim for inherently safer designs that reduce or eliminate the use and generation of hazardous substances. Apply principles of green chemistry to create processes and products that are environmentally friendly and sustainable from the start.

1. Harness solar energy through photovoltaic panels to generate electricity sustainably. 2. Utilize wind turbines to capture wind energy and convert it into electricity for power generation. 3. Tap into hydropower resources by harnessing the energy of flowing water through hydroelectric dams. 4. Explore geothermal energy by utilizing heat from the Earth's crust for heating and electricity production. 5. Invest in bioenergy sources such as biomass, biogas, and biofuels derived from organic materials for renewable energy generation.

As chemical engineers we could design plant for example with enzimatic catalyst for revovery agriciltural waste and for producting valuable chemicals

Support development and optimization of processes that use or produce renewable energy sources. Work on projects that convert biomass, solar, wind, or water into clean energy.

The transitioning to renewable energy sources is crucial for addressing climate change and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. As a chemical engineer, working on the development of biofuels, solar panels, or hydrogen fuel cells presents an incredible opportunity to contribute to this transition. Your role in optimizing processes for the production of these energy sources or developing new materials can significantly impact the efficiency and effectiveness of renewable energy technologies. By doing so, you're actively contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and promoting a more sustainable energy future. It's a fascinating and impactful area for chemical engineers to be involved in.

embracing renewable energy fosters energy security by diversifying our energy portfolio and reducing dependence on finite fossil fuel reserves. This not only mitigates geopolitical tensions associated with resource extraction but also promotes resilience in the face of energy supply disruptions.

Novel technologies such as CO2 capture from flue gases could be the key in limiting CO2. By optimising the process parameters, the effluent from the stack could be controlled, resulting in less pollution. For example, avoiding incomplete combustion in furnace (avoiding CO), optimising the excess oxygen amount in the furnace ( low NOx), leading to lower stack stack temperature and increased fuel efficiency. Maintaining water quality parameters’ such as pH, conductivity and silica in the effluent could also avoid water pollution. In short, capturing the pollutant should be the prime focus for the existing industries to avoid pollution.

There are a lot of example of process plant in order to convert co2 in valuable chemicals.The actual problem of these process is the economics are not yet favorable

Combatting pollution is a critical aspect of environmental protection, and chemical engineers play a vital role in this endeavor. With their expertise, they can design systems to reduce emissions of harmful chemicals into the environment. This can involve creating more efficient filtration systems, developing methods to capture and convert pollutants into harmless substances, or improving existing industrial processes to minimize their environmental footprint. It's inspiring to see how chemical engineers can apply their knowledge to directly address environmental challenges and work towards creating a cleaner and healthier planet for everyone. It's an important and impactful area of work for sure.

focus on waste minimization and treatment strategies, optimizing industrial processes to minimize waste generation and maximize resource utilization. It could be designing closed-loop systems, implementing effective recycling methods, and developing advanced wastewater treatment technologies to reduce water pollution.

The agricultural and industrial sectors have a multitude of resources and regulations pertaining to the use of ammonia scrubbers, but the municipal sector does not, specifically as it relates to the storage and use of ammonium hydroxide. Scrubbers are often seen as beneficial, but not a requirement (whether for safety or pollution control). The use and prevalence of vapor scrubbers for ammonium hydroxide storage should become commonplace for increased staff safety and control of ammonia vaporization.

Sustainable materials could be developed based on three characteristics: reuse, recycle and regenerate. ?? various solvents in the industries used for CO2 capture such as lonic Liquids and Deep Eutectic Solvents Are used as sustainable materials leading to reduced waste is the circular economy. ?? Recently, PET bottles were used to make clothes by an Indian giant, IOCL. Plastic bottles were converted into the micro pallets. later converted into yarn for weaving of these green clothes. ?? use medical waste during Covid also led to development of various sustainable materials via anaerobic digestion and incineration.

The example of hydrogenation of vegetale oil in renewable diesel or sustainable aviation fuel can be an alternative to more sustainable practices

Explore and promote the use of materials that fit into the circular economy. Work on projects that design out waste and pollution, keep products and materials in use, and regenerate natural systems.

The developing sustainable materials is crucial for reducing waste and conserving resources. As a chemical engineer, your expertise in polymer science and material properties can lead to significant innovations in creating biodegradable plastics or materials derived from renewable sources. By replacing traditional, non-renewable materials with more sustainable alternatives, you're not only contributing to environmental conservation but also driving the economy towards more sustainable practices. It's impressive how the knowledge and skills of chemical engineers can directly impact the development of more environmentally friendly materials, ultimately benefiting both the planet and society as a whole.

Beyond environmental benefits, the development of sustainable materials also presents economic opportunities. By pioneering innovative solutions that align with sustainability goals, as a chemical engineer to drive the economy towards more sustainable practices. These materials not only cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly products but also foster a culture of responsible consumption and production.

Focus on real projects in your company that save energy. Support or start initiatives to reduce waste and improve efficiency of energy usage. This has a more significant green impact than buying or selling green chemistry, sustainability or energy manager courses. It’s about making actual changes, not just learning.

Improving energy efficiency in industrial processes is a straightforward yet impactful way to make a green impact. As a chemical engineer, your role in optimizing chemical reactions, refining process control, and improving equipment design can significantly reduce the amount of energy required for production. This not only cuts costs for the industries but also lowers the carbon footprint of manufacturing operations, making a tangible contribution to the fight against climate change. It's inspiring to see how these efforts align both environmental and economic interests, showcasing the potential for positive change through the application of engineering expertise. It's an important area with far-reaching benefits.

Designing new equipment with energy efficiency in mind, such as incorporating heat exchangers, insulation, and energy recovery systems. Additionally, retrofitting existing equipment with energy-saving technologies can significantly improve efficiency without requiring major capital investments. It is doable almost in all plants where energy is being used

Optimizing energy efficiency for process systems shouldn’t be seen as beneficial, but necessary. For example, water treatment is an energy intensive process, but a treatment plant has many facilities and components that can be optimized to maximize efficiency and minimize operational and maintenance costs. One particular example is with respect to chemical dosing. By targeting and optimizing charge neutralization within coagulation, as opposed to encouraging sweep flocculation, treatment plant operators can save immensely on chemical usage and costs, while reducing wear and tear on residuals management equipment.

Today it is important that green chemistry principles should be teached to all chemical engineer alumn in all wordwide universities

Education and Advocacy are keys to building a sustainable Chemical Engineering Practice. It is a Multiple Discipline Process where Teaching and Learning are critical to find the Best Strategy. Gone are the days of "just do something, damn it" we must select the optimal solution in each case. Heuristics (or Rules of Thumb) are being dominated by Machine Learning and Algorithms that provide a better road map. More University Education will improve your ability to influence decision makers who inadvertently legislate laws that just limit choices. I don't believe in killing all the cows because they give off methane. I like milk, yogurt, and ice cream. See you at the MIT Systems Engineering Program.

I think informed individuals like chemical engineers can serve as catalysts for widespread change. They should try to equip individuals with the knowledge and understanding necessary to comprehend the significance of their actions on the environment. By developing informative materials, conducting workshops, and delivering presentations, trying to empower people with the insights needed to make informed decisions in their daily lives and professional endeavours.

Use your knowledge to teach others about sustainable practices. Real change comes not just from knowing, but from doing. Lead workshops, create informative content, and encourage practical actions within your community and industry.

Green economy must and should be based on Triple Bottom Line Approach (TBL). People profit environment. These might well be put as the stakeholders parties for lack of a better term. You cannot go green if you want to harm the environment and you will not associate with people if you do not sow back into their land. Last but not least you are in the business for profit. Allowing these three aspects to coexist leads to a green economy.

1. Research sustainable practices and technologies relevant to your field. 2. Develop eco-friendly solutions or improvements to existing processes. 3. Collaborate with environmental experts to ensure sustainability in projects. 4. Advocate for green initiatives within your industry. 5. Stay updated on advancements in green technology and practices. 6. Educate colleagues and stakeholders about the benefits of sustainability.