Green chemistry is the design of chemical products and processes that reduce and/or eliminate the use or generation of hazardous substances. This approach requires an open and interdisciplinary view of material and product design, applying the principle that it is better to consider waste and hazard prevention options during the design and development phase, rather than disposing, treating and handling waste and hazardous chemicals after a process or material has been developed.
"CU Green Labs helps implment a variety of green chemistry efforts to benefit chemial reuse and reduce hazardous waste generation on campus, such as ethanol reuse, acetone recycling, a Green Chemistry Fund, and partnering with Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S).