Chemistry has the power to help create a more sustainable future, and the Department of Chemistry and Physics at Barry University is helping students understand that impact.

The Department recently signed Beyond Benign’s Green Chemistry Commitment, joining more than 290 academic institutions worldwide working to advance green chemistry in higher education.

Green chemistry focuses on developing safer, less hazardous chemical products and processes while reducing waste and environmental impact. As demand for greener chemicals grows, students need green chemistry skills that can be applied in laboratories and across the chemical industry.

The Department of Chemistry and Physics has been updating its chemistry curriculum to incorporate principles of sustainability and help students connect scientific knowledge with real-world environmental challenges. Faculty members Dr. Zuzana Zajickova, Dr. Khoa Pham and Dr. Niroshani Abeynayake have played an integral role in addressing the growing need for students trained in green chemistry skills.

This commitment reflects the needs of the modern chemical industry and helps keep students competitive as they enter the workforce. Green chemistry also gives future scientists the knowledge to reduce hazards and environmental impacts at the earliest stages of product and process development.

Through this commitment, the Department is strengthening its focus on sustainability while preparing students to contribute to scientific innovation and a more sustainable future.