Challenges of Green Chemistry in Sustainable Development

Aguilerafernandez13 Jan, 2025Science

Green chemistry plays a vital role in promoting sustainable development by addressing environmental concerns, improving resource efficiency, and reducing health risks. However, its widespread adoption faces challenges across technological, economic, regulatory, and social dimensions. High R&D costs, driven by the need for innovation, experimentation, and specialized equipment, hinder the development and scaling of green alternatives. Existing infrastructure often requires costly retrofitting to accommodate green processes, posing financial burdens, particularly in industries with thin profit margins. Limited availability and high costs of sustainable raw materials, along with energy-intensive extraction processes, further complicate adoption. Economic competitiveness is another barrier, as green products often struggle to match the lower costs of conventional alternatives, and consumer willingness to pay a premium for sustainability remains inconsistent. Additionally, fragmented regula