Which statement best describes a principle of green chemistry?

• A. Avoid using catalysts
• B. Methods used to eliminate hazards during chemical use/manufacturing
• C. All reactions must occur at very high temperatures
• D. Use of renewable feedstocks is discouraged

Answer: (B)

Green chemistry aims to reduce risk and environmental impact by designing processes that minimize hazard potential. A core idea is to eliminate or greatly reduce hazards during chemical use and manufacturing, so the steps you take in making and using chemicals are as safe as possible. This is exactly what the statement about methods used to eliminate hazards conveys—it reflects the proactive, design-focused mindset of green chemistry. For example, choosing safer solvents, replacing toxic reagents with safer alternatives, and running reactions under milder conditions all illustrate eliminating hazards. In contrast, avoiding catalysts ignores a common strategy for lowering energy use and waste, high temperatures increase energy demand and risk, and discouraging renewable feedstocks goes against the sustainability goals of green chemistry.