Environmental chemistry is the scientific study of the chemical and biochemical phenomena that occur in natural environments such as air, water, and soil. It focuses on understanding the sources, reactions, transport, effects, and fate of chemical species in these environments, including the impact of human and biological activities on them
. This interdisciplinary field combines concepts from chemistry—such as chemical reactions, thermodynamics, kinetics, and analytical techniques—with knowledge from environmental sciences like ecology, hydrology, toxicology, and biology to analyze how chemicals behave and interact in natural systems
. Environmental chemistry also involves studying contaminants and pollutants—substances present at higher-than-natural levels or introduced by human activities—and their effects on ecosystems and human health
. Key aims of environmental chemistry include:
- Understanding how natural, uncontaminated environments function chemically and biologically
- Investigating how human activities alter chemical processes in the environment, leading to issues like pollution, smog, acid rain, and bioaccumulation of toxins
- Monitoring and analyzing environmental samples to detect harmful chemicals and assess their concentrations and impacts
- Developing strategies to mitigate pollution and promote sustainable environmental practices
In summary, environmental chemistry is essential for comprehending and managing the chemical dynamics of the environment to protect ecosystems and public health while supporting sustainable development
