Green Chemistry Institute

There are many environmentally safe products and chemicals out there. However, there are not enough to phase out all hazardous substances. New York can become a leader in this field by creating a Green Chemistry Institute.1 The goal of green chemistry is to research and develop innovative chemicals and technology that eliminate or significantly reduce pollution and waste.2 It is this development of safe chemicals that are necessary to move into an era without the danger of hazardous chemicals.

The Institute will allow New York to adopt the principle of substitution. This principle states that hazardous substances should be systematically replaced by less or non-toxic alternatives.3 In order for this principle to be effective, there needs to be more research and development as to what chemicals are safe and which ones need to be replaced. This is made easier with a state funded research facility dedicate to safe chemicals.