The Chemical Element: Chemistry's Contribution to Our Global Future

United Nations has declared 2011 the International Year of Chemistry, to celebrate the achievements of chemistry and its contributions to the well-being of humankind. In this book, prominent scientists highlight the major advances in the fight against the largest problems faced by humanity from the point of view of chemistry, showing how science is essential to ensuring our long-term survival.

Following the UN Millennium Development Goals, the authors examine the nine most critical areas, including energy, climate, food, water, poverty, education and health. All of them are opinion leaders in their fields, or high-ranking decision makers in national and international institutions. This book provides an intellectual basis for the future development of chemistry, it is aimed at a wide readership including students, professionals, engineers, scientists, environmentalists and anyone interested in a more sustainable future.

The book contains a Foreword from Nicole Moreau (President of the IUPAC) and Julia Hasler (UNESCO Focal Point for IYC) and an Epilogue by Jeffrey Sachs (Director of The Earth Institute).