Is there a role for green and sustainable chemistry in chemical disarmament and nonproliferation

Strategic goals of green and sustainable chemistry in the context of chemical disarmament and nonproliferation are discussed, especially, goals relevant to the implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. Concepts of importance in green chemistry appear throughout four core areas of chemical disarmament and nonproliferation: destruction of chemical weapons, nonproliferation and prevention of re-emergence of chemical weapons, assistance and protection and promoting international cooperation through peaceful uses of chemistry. Synergies between principles of green chemistry and those underpinning work in the aforementioned operational areas of the Chemical Weapons Convention are highlighted. It is concluded that while operationalisation of an international treaty and scientific research in green and sustainable chemistry appear quite different, aspirations of both activities are complementary. Both seek to realise and maintain a safer and more secure world, free of chemicals that can harm humans and the environment.