Sustainable Chemistry: The Future

When we watch the news and events around the world, it is almost impossible not to find items related to climate change, energy security or issues around plastic waste in the environment. However, as a global community, science is collectively providing solutions and answers through chemists working with engineers, engineers with policy makers, etc., and what they all have in common is a shared belief in sustainability. Here at Sustainable Chemistry, our aim is to be a cross-disciplinary journal promoting research at the forefront of applied green chemistry. It is an exciting time to be involved in in this area, as you can see your work having a real impact on society. Despite Sustainable Chemistry being a relatively new journal, it has amassed an impressive advisory board [1], and has a broad scope and reach. The journal scope ranges from catalysis and solvents to life cycle assessment and energy storage—and a lot more between [2]. We are currently publishing a wide range of highly impressive review articles and research papers that are pushing the boundaries of green chemistry. I have personally been very impressed with the strength and quality of the peer review process, and it has been interesting to see how the reviewers have really helped to shape and improve the published articles. One particular review that is already receiving interest is by Gomez et al. [3] on the application of ammonia as an energy vector and fuel. In recent years, silver nanoparticles have shown promise due to their antimicrobial properties, Grigoras has shown how these can be prepared using a more environmentally benign manner using a plant-mediated approach [4]. A further topic of research interest is the utility of renewable materials as a source of carbon, for the transition away from fossil-based carbon. One such approach using waste from cashew nut production has shown how cardanol can be produced, which has applications for new materials [5].

I invite you to submit your cutting-edge work for consideration and look forward to working with the community to establish Sustainable Chemistry as a leading journal in this space.