Getting the Terms Right: Green, Sustainable, or Circular Chemistry?

• Published in: Macromolecular chemistry and physics 2022-07, Vol.223 (13), p.n/a
• Main Authors: Mutlu, Hatice, Barner, Leonie
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: circular chemistry; circular economy; Depletion; Economic analysis; Economic models; green chemistry; Polymer chemistry; Polymers; sustainable chemistry
• ISSN: 1022-1352; 1521-3935
• DOI: 10.1002/macp.202200111

Green chemistry, sustainable chemistry, and circular chemistry are important concepts for the modern lifestyle, current research directions, and worldwide industries. These three concepts are closely related and interconnected but cannot be used synonymously. In addition, they are addressing two different economic models, i.e., linear economy and circular economy. The current contribution focuses on the importance of these decisive chemistries for the development of a sustainable future and their role in the realm of circular economy and the planetary boundaries framework—especially for the planetary boundary of “novel entities.” Researchers active in the field of polymer chemistry play an important role as plastic pollution and resource in addition to environmental depletion, caused by the still increasing production of polymers and plastics, become more and more pronounced. It is also reported that multi‐ and interdisciplinary approaches are needed to develop solutions for a sustainable future. The importance and impact of green chemistry, sustainable chemistry, and circular chemistry are discussed as indispensable concepts for a sustainable future of polymer chemistry and avoidance of plastic pollution.