Promoting Green Chemistry in Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria

Abstract

Green chemistry has emerged as an important approach to achieving environmental sustainability through the prevention of pollution, reduction of hazardous substances, efficient use of resources and development of safer chemical products and processes. Tertiary institutions in Nigeria have an important role to play in promoting green chemistry because they serve as centres for chemistry education, scientific research, technological innovation and human-capacity development. However, inadequate laboratory facilities, limited awareness, insufficient funding, weak institutional policies, inappropriate chemical-waste management and inadequate integration of green chemistry into the curriculum may constrain its effective implementation. This paper discusses strategies for promoting green chemistry in Nigerian tertiary institutions. The strategies include integrating green chemistry into chemistry curricula; transforming conventional laboratories into green laboratories; strengthening staff training and research collaboration; providing institutional policies, funding and incentives; establishing dedicated green chemistry research centres; promoting practical and project-based learning; strengthening chemical-waste management and green procurement; developing partnerships with industries and research organisations; using digital technology, virtual laboratories and artificial intelligence to support green chemistry education; and establishing green chemistry clubs and student sustainability programmes. The paper argues that effective implementation requires collaboration among tertiary institution management, academic staff, students, government agencies, industries and professional organisations. It concludes that promoting green chemistry can improve the quality of chemistry education while contributing to environmental protection, resource conservation, innovation and sustainable development in Nigeria.