International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) unveils guiding principles intended for promoting responsible chemistry practice
The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) has launched a set of guiding principles of responsible chemistry, aiming to transform how chemistry is practised, taught, and perceived globally.
The principles, which emphasise sustainability, safety, ethical practice, education, innovation with responsibility, and more, were highlighted at the IUPAC General Assembly in 2025. These principles align with broader goals such as green chemistry and sustainable practices embraced by academia and industry.
Key aspects of responsible chemistry under IUPAC’s guidance include:
- Sustainability: Promoting chemistry that supports sustainable development and minimises environmental impact.
- Safety: Designing chemical processes and products that reduce hazards and risks to humans and ecosystems.
- Ethical practice: Encouraging transparency, honesty, inclusivity, and fairness in chemical research and industry.
- Education and outreach: Transforming education to embed responsible chemistry principles and inspire future generations.
- Innovation with responsibility: Driving creativity in chemistry towards societal benefit and solving global challenges.
IUPAC describes the guiding principles as a "living resource" intended to evolve and be used in various settings. The union calls on scientists, educators, industry leaders, policymakers, and the next generation of chemists to align their work with humanity's most urgent needs.
The principles also highlight the importance of integrity and accuracy in chemistry, as well as equitable access to information, resources, and opportunities within the chemistry community. Chemists are encouraged to practice responsible innovation, employing scientific knowledge to maximise benefits for people while minimising impact on the planet.
IUPAC collaborated with the King's Centre for Visualization in Science to involve students in the development process. The guiding principles of responsible chemistry aim to help shape a more ethical, inclusive, and sustainable future through the power of chemistry.
These principles are a call to action for all parties involved in the field of chemistry, particularly students and young scientists. By adhering to these principles, the global chemistry community can ensure a liveable, just, and sustainable future for all.
Science, particularly chemistry, plays a crucial role in health-and-wellness and therapies-and-treatments by promoting sustainability through practices aligned with the guiding principles of the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC). These principles advocate for innovation with responsibility, fostering creativity in chemistry to solve global challenges and benefit society, while also prioritizing safety, ethical practice, education, and accessibility.
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