Green chemistry and the bioeconomy: a necessary nexus

Abstract

Economically viable green chemistry processes are the technology enablers of the bioeconomy. Access to an economically viable green chemistry production route, however, is not per se sufficient for successful bioproduction. The cases of synthetic amorphous silica, pectin, polysaccharide nanofibers, pelargonic acid, hydrogen peroxide electrochemically sourced from water, and that of valued bioproducts (orange oil, limonene, and dietary fiber) from fresh orange peel were selected to substantiate these assumptions. The study concludes by identifying three conditions for competitive bioproduction methods, along with learning and educational outcomes considered relevant for green chemistry and bioeconomy educators.