SWRM 2026

Chemistry plays a central role in solving global challenges by connecting three major areas: •Energy •Sustainability •Biology These fields are no longer separate, but rather integrated to create innovative, real-world solutions.

Chemistry & Energy Chemistry helps us understand and design energy systems at the molecular level.

Key research areas:

•Solar energy conversion (e.g., artificial photosynthesis)

•Batteries and energy storage (lithium-ion, solid-state)

•Fuel cells and hydrogen energy

•Catalysis for energy-efficient reactions Chemists design materials that store, convert, and transport energy more efficiently. Chemistry & Sustainability (Green Chemistry) Sustainability in chemistry focuses on reducing environmental impact while meeting human needs.

Core principles:

•Reduce toxic chemicals and waste

•Use renewable resources

•Improve energy efficiency

•Design recyclable materials Modern approaches emphasize systems thinking, meaning chemists consider

•Environmental impact

•Economic feasibility

•Social consequences Chemistry is essential for clean water, sustainable agriculture, and pollution reduction.

Chemistry & Biology (Chemical Biology) This field connects chemistry with living systems. Examples:

•Drug discovery and pharmaceuticals

•Understanding proteins and enzymes

•Bio-inspired materials (e.g., mimicking natural catalysts)

•Studying cellular processes at the molecular level Biological systems inspire more efficient and sustainable chemical processes. Interdisciplinary examples:

1. Bio-inspired energy systems

•Artificial photosynthesis (like plants converting sunlight to energy)

•Enzyme-based fuel cells

2. Sustainable materials from biology

•Biodegradable plastics

• Biomaterials for medicine and energy

3. Carbon capture & utilization

• Converting CO₂ into fuels using catalysts or microbes

4. Green pharmaceuticals

•Designing drugs with minimal environmental impact These areas require collaboration across chemistry, biology, engineering, and environmental