News from the ECG, 2024 Chair's report
This issue of the ECG Bulletin marks not only my first as Chair, but it also celebrates an incredible 30 years of publication. In honour of our milestone, I’ve undertaken a special project exploring the evolution of the ECG Bulletin. With the help of large language models, I conducted an in-depth analysis of 20 years of ECG Bulletins, uncovering trends, themes, and insights that showcase how our group has adapted to meet the challenges of environmental chemistry and broader global issues. This retrospective not only pays tribute to the dedicated contributors who have shaped the ECG Bulletin, but also provides a lens through which we can chart our future path. As we look ahead to 2025, I am excited to build on this rich legacy, fostering new opportunities for advocacy for a fairer, greener future.
This year saw transitions in officer roles — I took over from Rowena Fletcher-Wood as Chair, Helena Rapp-Wright became Treasurer, succeeding Valerio Ferracci, and whilst Laura Alcock remains our Secretary, she has moved halfway across the world. To ensure a smooth transition, Rowena is now our Vice-Chair, and we plan to appoint a new Vice-Chair in 2025. We welcome three new elected committee members: Adam Peters, Amy-Louise Johnston, and Emma Braysher. Additionally, we co-opted Gary Fones, who will be chairing #EnvChem2025 at the University of Portsmouth. Table 1 summarises the Officers roles since 2015, an update since the 20th anniversary issue[1].
In 2024, the ECG organised seven diverse and impactful events. The breadth and impact of our activities reflected a cohesive approach to addressing current environmental challenges, engaging both experts and the public, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to drive meaningful change. Our flagship Distinguished Guest Lecture and Symposium, “Killer Threads: Fast Fashion’s Impact on the Environment”, focused on the environmental consequences of modern textile manufacturing, mass consumption, and waste disposal. The medal was awarded to Dr Raquel Prado, Head of Research and Sustainability at Ananas Anam, a textile company who developed Piñatex ─ an innovative, eco-friendly leather alternative made from pineapple leaf fibres. By using agricultural waste, Ananas Anam promotes circular economy principles and reduces environmental impact compared to synthetic or animal-based leathers[2]. The Communicating Sustainability Workshop was facilitated by Dr Mario Moustras (RSC Management Interest Group). This workshop, aimed at doctoral students and early career researchers (ECRs), provided practical strategies for effectively conveying complex ideas to non-technical audiences. The event was supported by Imperial College London. The committee is now exploring how to extend this training to other ECRs across the UK. We introduced a new type of workshop with the Place of Chemistry in a Doughnut Economy. Through interactive activities, participants developed systems-thinking frameworks to tackle sustainability issues. We hope this meeting will inspire a series of future events and communications centred on sustainable economic models. Air Quality in the 21st Century, organised in collaboration with DEFRA’s Air Quality Expert Group, addressed emerging issues in air quality measurement and regulation. Circular Chemistry: Carbon Capture and Storage explored cutting-edge CCS techniques and storage solutions. Our outreach efforts included the IF Oxford 2024 Festival, where we engaged the public with interactive activities on water pollution, plastic waste, and ocean acidification. Committee member Adam Peters attended the Burlington Consensus 3 meeting that highlighted the crucial role of scientists in shaping global policymaking on chemicals and pollution.
Our website remains well visited, with over 42 visits per day on average, primarily through Google. Interestingly, we are also beginning to receive visits via queries on AI search engines such as perplexity.ai. ECG Bulletin articles continue to be popular! By the time you read this, we will have transitioned to our new website: https://www.rsc-ecg.com/, where you will find all your favourite content in a more accessible, user friendly, and RSC-aligned format.
Our vision in 2025 is to map our activities around the theme of a Just Transition. This will focus on the research, cultural changes, systems thinking, and training required for chemists to contribute to a resilient future. We will keep you updated on these developments. I am also excited that, in 2025, we will host our third in-person #EnvChem Chemistry of the Whole Environment event at the University of Portsmouth. Abstract submission is now open!
Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to play an increasingly significant role in our personal and professional lives. Having used ChatGPT, a large language model (LLM), for nearly two years and recently upgraded to the Pro version, I decided to harness its capabilities to present a retrospective of ECG Bulletin contents over the last 20 years. I uploaded the ECG Bulletin PDFs and then engaged ChatGPT by asking a series of questions and prompts to compile key themes, insights, and highlights. I only tackled the last 20 years as PDFs produced earlier were not accessible to ChatGPT. This retrospective not only celebrates the rich legacy of the ECG Bulletin, but also highlights the potential of AI-driven tools. I was particularly struck by how the ECG Bulletin has consistently been at the forefront of our field’s topics, including a contribution from Professor Richard Thompson based on his groundbreaking 2004 Science paper on microplastics[3], before they were even named! Additionally, the ECG Bulletin appears to serve as a comprehensive repository of all things arsenic.
Our vision in 2025 is to map our activities around the theme of a Just Transition. This will focus on the research, cultural changes, systems thinking, and training required for chemists to contribute to a resilient future. We will keep you updated on these developments. I am also excited that, in 2025, we will host our third in-person #EnvChem Chemistry of the Whole Environment event at the University of Portsmouth. Abstract submission is now open!
Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to play an increasingly significant role in our personal and professional lives. Having used ChatGPT, a large language model (LLM), for nearly two years and recently upgraded to the Pro version, I decided to harness its capabilities to present a retrospective of ECG Bulletin contents over the last 20 years. I uploaded the ECG Bulletin PDFs and then engaged ChatGPT by asking a series of questions and prompts to compile key themes, insights, and highlights. I only tackled the last 20 years as PDFs produced earlier were not accessible to ChatGPT. This retrospective not only celebrates the rich legacy of the ECG Bulletin, but also highlights the potential of AI-driven tools. I was particularly struck by how the ECG Bulletin has consistently been at the forefront of our field’s topics, including a contribution from Professor Richard Thompson based on his groundbreaking 2004 Science paper on microplastics[3], before they were even named! Additionally, the ECG Bulletin appears to serve as a comprehensive repository of all things arsenic.
In tribute to past ECG Bulletin contributors, Table 2 updates that presented in our 2015 anniversary issue[1] with the last 10 years of editorial teams. More here: https://shorturl.at/ucyla And, if you are a ChatGPT Pro user, you can try the GPT I created (https://shorturl.at/MA9iF ) to explore more.
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ECG Bulletins: a 20 years retrospective
Co-authored with ChatGPT.
Plastics and microplastics
The issue of plastics, particularly microplastics, emerged in ECG Bulletins in the early 2000s. The first explicit mention came in 2004, with Richard Thompson's article on Problems with Plastics, co-authored with Steve Rowland. This article laid the foundation for subsequent microplastics research, marking the first step toward understanding environmental impact. Subsequent ECG Bulletins continued to address plastic pollution, and the growing concern over microplastics. In 2014, the ECG Bulletin featured Richard Thompson’s Distinguished Guest Lecture, which underscored the emerging threat of microplastics to the environment. Throughout the years, focus shifted from large plastic debris to microplastics and their effects on marine life, human health, and ecosystems. From 2014 onwards, the ECG Bulletins covered innovative solutions and increased regulatory efforts to address the plastic crisis, including new recycling technologies and eco-friendly materials.
Pharmaceuticals in the environment
This topic began gaining attention in the ECG Bulletins in the early 2000s. In 2005, Pharmaceuticals in the Environment: Fate, Effects, and Regulation brought together experts to address the environmental persistence of pharmaceutical compounds. Key speakers included Emma Pemberton, Alex Tait, and Alistair Boxall, who highlighted concerns about pharmaceutical residues in wastewater, soil, and water systems, and their role in antimicrobial resistance (AMR). ECG Bulletins later covered advances in detection and growing concern about AMR. Innovative solutions like advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) for wastewater treatment arose, and issues highlighted the impact of microplastics in exacerbating pharmaceutical pollution.
Co-authored with ChatGPT.
Plastics and microplastics
The issue of plastics, particularly microplastics, emerged in ECG Bulletins in the early 2000s. The first explicit mention came in 2004, with Richard Thompson's article on Problems with Plastics, co-authored with Steve Rowland. This article laid the foundation for subsequent microplastics research, marking the first step toward understanding environmental impact. Subsequent ECG Bulletins continued to address plastic pollution, and the growing concern over microplastics. In 2014, the ECG Bulletin featured Richard Thompson’s Distinguished Guest Lecture, which underscored the emerging threat of microplastics to the environment. Throughout the years, focus shifted from large plastic debris to microplastics and their effects on marine life, human health, and ecosystems. From 2014 onwards, the ECG Bulletins covered innovative solutions and increased regulatory efforts to address the plastic crisis, including new recycling technologies and eco-friendly materials.
Pharmaceuticals in the environment
This topic began gaining attention in the ECG Bulletins in the early 2000s. In 2005, Pharmaceuticals in the Environment: Fate, Effects, and Regulation brought together experts to address the environmental persistence of pharmaceutical compounds. Key speakers included Emma Pemberton, Alex Tait, and Alistair Boxall, who highlighted concerns about pharmaceutical residues in wastewater, soil, and water systems, and their role in antimicrobial resistance (AMR). ECG Bulletins later covered advances in detection and growing concern about AMR. Innovative solutions like advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) for wastewater treatment arose, and issues highlighted the impact of microplastics in exacerbating pharmaceutical pollution.
Atmospheric chemistry and climate change
Atmospheric chemistry, particularly its role in climate change, has been a key theme in ECG Bulletins; starting with early discussions on the chemistry-climate interactions in the 2005 Faraday Discussion, which examined the stratospheric–tropospheric ozone exchange and the role of free radicals in atmospheric processes. In the following years, focus shifted to the role of atmospheric chemistry in global warming and air quality. Notable topics included ozone depletion, the role of hydroxyl radicals in the atmosphere, and aerosol interactions with atmospheric systems. By 2010, ECG Bulletins focused on urban air pollution and greenhouse gases, particularly their impact on climate change and atmospheric reactions. In the later years, especially 2014–2024, ECG Bulletins saw the integration of satellite technology to monitor air pollutants and the growing importance of climate modelling. Solutions, such as the development of greenhouse gas removal technologies and aerosol geoengineering, were also discussed.
Arsenic contamination in the environment
Arsenic contamination in groundwater is a recurring ECG Bulletin theme, focusing on its environmental, health, and remediation implications.
2004–2007: Arsenic contamination in Bangladesh and other parts of Asia. Reports highlighted that millions were exposed to high levels of arsenic through drinking water, leading to chronic health conditions.
2007–2009: Health risks of arsenic in India, Bangladesh, and Vietnam. Phytoremediation was discussed as an innovative approach, with plants like Pteris vittata for arsenic cleanup.
2011–2019: Global arsenic contamination, including regions like Latin America and Europe. New arsenic removal technologies tested in Bangladesh and India, like community-based filters and larger-scale treatment plants, were presented.
Two decades of the ECG Bulletin reveals a dynamic evolution of environmental chemistry. Milestones underscore the interconnectedness of environmental systems and the need for holistic approaches to solve complex, multifaceted issues. Environmental problems do not exist in isolation, but are part of broader ecological, societal, and economic networks. The future of environmental chemistry will depend on our ability to integrate technological innovation with ethical responsibility. Emerging challenges such as nanomaterials, geoengineering, and sustainable resource management offer opportunities to develop solutions that not only mitigate harm but also promote equity and resilience. The ECG Bulletin continues to be a vital platform for sharing insights, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and inspiring action. Let us chart a course towards a healthier, more resilient, and more just world for all.
Atmospheric chemistry, particularly its role in climate change, has been a key theme in ECG Bulletins; starting with early discussions on the chemistry-climate interactions in the 2005 Faraday Discussion, which examined the stratospheric–tropospheric ozone exchange and the role of free radicals in atmospheric processes. In the following years, focus shifted to the role of atmospheric chemistry in global warming and air quality. Notable topics included ozone depletion, the role of hydroxyl radicals in the atmosphere, and aerosol interactions with atmospheric systems. By 2010, ECG Bulletins focused on urban air pollution and greenhouse gases, particularly their impact on climate change and atmospheric reactions. In the later years, especially 2014–2024, ECG Bulletins saw the integration of satellite technology to monitor air pollutants and the growing importance of climate modelling. Solutions, such as the development of greenhouse gas removal technologies and aerosol geoengineering, were also discussed.
Arsenic contamination in the environment
Arsenic contamination in groundwater is a recurring ECG Bulletin theme, focusing on its environmental, health, and remediation implications.
2004–2007: Arsenic contamination in Bangladesh and other parts of Asia. Reports highlighted that millions were exposed to high levels of arsenic through drinking water, leading to chronic health conditions.
2007–2009: Health risks of arsenic in India, Bangladesh, and Vietnam. Phytoremediation was discussed as an innovative approach, with plants like Pteris vittata for arsenic cleanup.
2011–2019: Global arsenic contamination, including regions like Latin America and Europe. New arsenic removal technologies tested in Bangladesh and India, like community-based filters and larger-scale treatment plants, were presented.
Two decades of the ECG Bulletin reveals a dynamic evolution of environmental chemistry. Milestones underscore the interconnectedness of environmental systems and the need for holistic approaches to solve complex, multifaceted issues. Environmental problems do not exist in isolation, but are part of broader ecological, societal, and economic networks. The future of environmental chemistry will depend on our ability to integrate technological innovation with ethical responsibility. Emerging challenges such as nanomaterials, geoengineering, and sustainable resource management offer opportunities to develop solutions that not only mitigate harm but also promote equity and resilience. The ECG Bulletin continues to be a vital platform for sharing insights, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and inspiring action. Let us chart a course towards a healthier, more resilient, and more just world for all.
References
1. R. Purchase, ECG Bulletin, January 2015, pp. 4-6.
2. K. Rodgers, ECG Bulletin, July 2024, pp. 5-6.
3. R. C. Thompson et al Science, 2004, 304, 838; https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1094559
1. R. Purchase, ECG Bulletin, January 2015, pp. 4-6.
2. K. Rodgers, ECG Bulletin, July 2024, pp. 5-6.
3. R. C. Thompson et al Science, 2004, 304, 838; https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1094559