Safe and Sustainable Chemistry Activities: Fostering a Culture of Safety in K–12 and Community Outreach Programs
Amy S. Cannon, Amy E. Keirstead, Reuben Hudson, Irvin J. Levy, Jennifer MacKellar, Mollie Enright, Kate R. Anderson, Elizabeth M. Howson
Abstract
Green chemistry provides unique opportunities for student engagement through K–12 and community outreach. As a platform for safe, engaging outreach, green chemistry activities allow for hands-on approaches to introducing science and chemistry concepts in informal settings. Green chemistry outreach also is a means for American Chemical Society (ACS) student chapters to earn recognition as a green chemistry student chapter through the ACS student chapter awards. Beyond Benign’s College Student Fellows program is highlighted as an example of training college students in green chemistry outreach to promote K–12 and college student engagement. The University of New England (UNE) and Colby College provide examples of college student engagement through different outreach settings. This article outlines the many benefits of utilizing green chemistry activities through K–12 and community outreach, including creating a safe environment for student engagement, creating habits-of-mind for college students, and engaging K–12 students in safer, greener chemistry experiments and activities.