Editorial: Green Chemistry and Sustainable Development

In January, 2007 a Workshop on Green Chemistry was held in Johannesburg. John Warner and Amy Cannon (University of Massachusetts, Lowell) were the “guiding spirits” for this effort, while funding came from the South African Paper and Pulp Industry (SAPPI). At this meeting Professor Paul Ndalut from Daniel Arap Moi University wisely observed (I paraphrase): ”Green Chemistry is a good idea. But Africa has many burdens, including poverty, war and the epidemics of HIV, malaria and tuberculosis. Green Chemistry is a priority only if it helps address these issues.” I propose that the strongest justification for Green Chemistry in Africa is precisely the opportunity to address the differences between rich and poor in access to technology and creating sustainable economic development.