Expert Session on Sustainable Chemistry Laboratory
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The PG Department of Chemistry, Kanya Maha Vidyalaya (The Heritage & Autonomous Institution), Jalandhar, organised an Expert Session on the topic “Sustainable Chemistry Laboratory Practices” on 12th September 2026 by Professor Sarita Passey from Zakir Hussain College, Delhi University. The session focused on promoting safe, environment-friendly and resource-efficient practices in chemistry laboratories.
Prof. Passey highlighted the importance of applying circular economy principles through the 3Rs—Reduce, Reuse and Recycle in laboratory work. She demonstrated practical approaches such as microscale chemistry, use of smaller quantities of chemicals, spot tests on filter paper/watch glasses, proper chemical inventory management and reuse of stock solutions and student-prepared compounds.
The expert also discussed green alternatives to conventional organic reactions, including safer methods for acetylation and the preparation of p-bromoacetanilide, thereby reducing the use of hazardous reagents and laboratory waste. A special highlight was the demonstration of the “BO-DMEL” apparatus for melting point, boiling point and distillation experiments, which helps minimise chemical and solvent consumption while improving laboratory safety.
The session provided valuable insights into transforming conventional laboratory experiments into greener, safer and more sustainable practices. Faculty members were encouraged to explore microscale and semi-microscale techniques, use dilute solutions, promote inter-laboratory sharing and reuse of chemicals, and maintain systematic chemical inventories to minimise wastage.
Dr. Manju Sahni, Head, PG Department of Chemistry, proposed the vote of thanks and expressed gratitude to Prof. Sarita Passey for sharing her expertise and practical experiences. The session successfully created awareness about sustainable laboratory practices and encouraged the adoption of green chemistry and circular economy principles in chemistry education.
Student Participation =80
Faculty Participation =10
