Foreword
by Thomas T. Tidwell
Green Chemistry is a solution to problems that occur around the
world, and it is of particular importance that this volume addresses
how this can be applied to Africa, which is blessed with a large
share of the world's legacy of natural resources. It is especially
gratifying that the contributors to this volume are almost all from
Africa, as the best way for applying the solutions of Green Chemistry
to the problems of this continent will surely be provided by the
people who live an work there. The Chapters include the moral and
ethical basis of Green Chemistry, which provides the rationale for
this concept, which is further validated by the overwhelming economic
and social arguments for sustainability. The importance of education
is stressed, as it is necessary that all chemical practice be imbued
with the principles of sound use of resources. Other Chapters deal
with specific technical subject, including mining, solar energy,
catalysis, supported reagents, natural products, and waste disposal,
and these are relevant not only in Africa but to all the world.
It is highly appropriate that Green Chemistry should be widely
promoted in Africa, which has much to gain from the wise development
of its resources and environment. Success in this efforts will benefit
not only Africa, but also the rest of the world, and it is to be
hoped that solutions developed there will be applied to solve similar
problems around the globe. The editors and authors are to be congratulated
for creating this valuable resource, and the spread of ideas presented
will benefit all mankind.
Thomas T. Tidwell
President, IUPAC Division
of Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry