Green chemistry - practical solutions in the chemistry laboratory

Abstract

Laboratory classes are an important element of chemical education. We explored the possibility of replacing traditional school experiments with other experimentation techniques such as the use of microscale and droplet analysis, microwave oven, microscope, and online laboratories. 44 university students participated in the research. They carried out traditional and modified experiments and assessed them in terms of safety, environmental nuisance, and satisfaction. Students reported enjoying the new techniques, but after 8 years of learning traditional chemistry, they did not perceive the harmful effects of traditional experiences. Therefore, they did not agree with the need to replace traditional experiences with more ecological ones. The obtained results show that chemistry students and future teachers do not recognize the role of green chemistry and do not consider it necessary to redesign chemical experiments to make them more environmentally friendly.