Authors: Dr. Varsha V. Bankar, Dr. Sushil B. Kapoor

ISBN: 978-93-7183-773-6

DOI: https://doi.org/10.59646/580

Date of Publication: January 26, 2026

Preface

The growing urgency of environmental degradation, climate change, and resource depletion has compelled scientists, policymakers, and industries to rethink the way chemical knowledge is generated and applied. From Molecules to Ecosystems: Theoretical Approaches to Green Chemistry is conceived in response to this global need, offering a comprehensive and conceptually grounded exploration of green chemistry from the molecular scale to broader ecological systems.
Green chemistry is not merely a set of alternative techniques; it is a transformative framework that integrates chemical innovation with environmental responsibility and socio-economic sustainability. This textbook emphasizes the theoretical foundations that underpin green chemistry, enabling readers to understand not only how sustainable chemical processes are designed, but why they function effectively across interconnected systems. By bridging molecular design, reaction mechanisms, process optimization, life-cycle thinking, and ecosystem-level impacts, the book adopts a truly holistic and multidisciplinary perspective.
The content is structured to guide readers progressively—from fundamental molecular principles and green reaction pathways to systems thinking, industrial applications, and ecological considerations. Special emphasis is placed on concepts such as atom economy, catalysis, renewable feedstocks, green solvents, energy efficiency, and circular chemistry, while also integrating insights from environmental science, systems ecology, and sustainability theory. This integrative approach reflects the evolving nature of chemical sciences, where disciplinary boundaries are increasingly fluid.
This textbook is intended for undergraduate and postgraduate students of chemistry, environmental science, chemical engineering, and related disciplines, as well as researchers and practitioners seeking a strong theoretical grounding in green chemistry. Each chapter is designed to support academic learning, critical thinking, and research orientation, making the book suitable for coursework, reference, and self-study.
Ultimately, From Molecules to Ecosystems aims to inspire a new generation of scientists and scholars to view chemistry not in isolation, but as a powerful tool for advancing sustainable development. By aligning theoretical rigor with ecological responsibility, this book aspires to contribute meaningfully to the global transition toward greener, safer, and more resilient chemical practices.