Green chemistry is the design of chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the use and generation of hazardous substances. It aims to protect human health, while enhancing the efficiency and competitiveness of the chemical industry. Green chemistry laboratory practices are also important to protect the environment from the harmful effects of chemical waste, pollution, and resource depletion. Green chemistry principles can be applied to various stages of research and development, from the selection of starting materials and solvents, to the optimization of reaction conditions and catalysts, to the minimization of waste and energy consumption. This paper reviews the current status, challenges and opportunities of implementing green chemistry practices in laboratory settings, both in academia and industry. It provides examples of how chemists can adopt greener alternatives for common laboratory operations, such as synthesis, purification, analysis and storage. It also discusses the benefits and barriers of adopting green chemistry practices, such as cost savings, safety improvements, regulatory compliance, innovation potential, education and outreach, as well as technical limitations, lack of awareness, resistance to change and insufficient incentives. The paper highlights the need for further research and innovation in green chemistry to address the emerging challenges and opportunities in the chemical sciences.

Keywords: Green Chemistry, Chemicals, Environment.