Challenges and Directions for Green Chemical Engineering—Role of Nanoscale Materials

TLDR: In this paper, the authors give a perspective on sustainable nanoscale engineering through the view of numerous academic and industrial experts. But, their focus is on the sustainable development goals set by the United Nations, which are a blueprint for a thriving and more sustainable future for all.

Abstract: Nanotechnology and nanomaterials are among the most significant scientific and industrial research breakthroughs of the 21st century. With the rapid globalization of science, chemists, materials scientists, and chemical engineers are synergistically working together worldwide to understand how to manipulate matter for the benefit of humankind. The Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations provide a blueprint through which a thriving and more sustainable future can be achieved for all. These goals address the global challenges we face, and most of them are directly affected by chemical manufacturing. Consequently, it is our responsibility to design, manufacture and recycle chemicals, and develop processes, considering sustainability. There are several emerging areas of nanoscale engineering with great promise for sustainable chemical engineering. There are a plethora of innovative materials and methodologies, all with the potential to enable sustainable industrial development, on the rise. This chapter gives a perspective on sustainable nanoscale engineering through the view of numerous academic and industrial experts.