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Global Synergy: Chemical Engineers as Architects of a Sustainable Future by Akomolafe Peace

December 17, 2025

Global Synergy: Chemical Engineers as Architects of a Sustainable Future



Over the years, the world has been combating global warming due to the improper combustion of fossil fuel. It’s no longer news that we are now transitioning into sustainable energy, because of this alarming quest for a cleaner environment. Before we delve deeper, let’s explore what sustainable energy really is.



According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), sustainable energy is defined as energy that meets present needs without affecting the future generations' ability to meet theirs. This energy focuses on renewable sources like solar and wind which are highly accessible and capable of supporting carbon neutrality, while taking into consideration energy efficiency and responsible social and economic impacts.



A Brief History of Sustainable Energy



Before the industrial revolution, humans depended on the sun for drying clothes and preserving agricultural products, making solar energy our first and most natural source of energy.

As the world evolved, the use of internal combustion engines, automobiles and demand for electricity skyrocketed and as a result of this, a powerful and reliable source of energy was required. In order to bring a solution to this problem, oil and fossil fuels came on board, which marked a significant turning point in civilization. These fossil fuels became a reliable source of energy to most industries and lifestyles, which brought about modern society (Chain4 Energy, n.d.).



Why Do We Need to Retrace Our Steps?



Over time, fossil fuels have revealed their dangerous part. From exploration to consumption, oil and gas have posed great danger to health and the environment especially those living closer to where the activities are being carried out. Recently, the NIH reported that those living near drilling areas suffer a higher risk of cancer, liver damage, neurological issues and other chronic illnesses (Kampa & Castanas, 2008).

Another aspect of fossil fuels that has caused great harm is gas flaring. A recent research study estimated that flaring from oil and gas causes pollution that contributes around US$7.4 billion in annual health damages, causes over 700 premature deaths, and triggers 73,000 asthma events in children each year (Boston University School of Public Health, 2024). These statistics show the alarming need for reduction in fossil fuels.

Emphasis on the urgent need for a cleaner and more sustainable source of energy has been made by the UN Brundtland Commission in 1987. Since then, there has been a drive to transition into sustainable energy, hence fostering carbon neutrality. Thanks to scientific advancements, the once considered weak sources, like solar and wind, are now able to produce power that is as strong as and cleaner than fossil fuels

Chemical Engineers as Architects of a Sustainable Future



This is where chemical engineers step in. With their unique skill set, they are not just problem-solvers but also innovators who design sustainable systems for global impact.

Biomass & Biofuels: Rather than discarding our kitchen waste, chemical engineers create wealth from waste by converting them into biomass and biofuel through the processes of pyrolysis and fermentation.

  • Solar Energy: With the development of advanced materials, engineers have been able to enhance the efficiency of solar panels and design systems that convert solar radiation into electricity and other forms of energy like chemical energy.

  • Green Hydrogen: Water can also be split into hydrogen and oxygen through electrolysis, thereby producing clean hydrogen that can power industries without carbon emissions.

  • Carbon Capture & Storage (CCS): In order to reduce the catastrophes resulting from the carbon emissions, engineers have innovated a new technology called Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), which captures CO₂ from industrial emissions and stores or reuses it, thereby reducing greenhouse buildup.

These insightful innovations have not only shown but also proven that chemical engineers are not just contributors, but architects of the global transition to a sustainable and carbon-emission-free future.

References