Organic CHemistry: Improving existing products

[jessiedog_03]

Can anyone provide and briefly explain 2 examples of how organic chemistry can be used to improve existing products, and thus provide solutions to newly identified health or environmental problems?
One example I was given was unleaded instead of leaded gasoline, but I need 2 others!

 

[gabriels-horn]

Can anyone provide and briefly explain 2 examples of how organic chemistry can be used to improve existing products, and thus provide solutions to newly identified health or environmental problems?
One example I was given was unleaded instead of leaded gasoline, but I need 2 others!

Drug research is essentially organic chemistry.

 

[jippetto]

Biodegradable polymers versus non-biodegradable polymers. Polymerization is pretty much in organic chemistry's domain.

 

[chemisttree]

I believe that BASF has an ad campaign that states, "We don't make the products you use. We make the products you use better."

 

[DeeNos]

1) Biodegradable plastics: Organic chemistry has played a crucial role in developing biodegradable plastics, which can help reduce the environmental impact of traditional plastics. These plastics are made from organic compounds, such as starch or cellulose, that can be broken down by microorganisms in the environment. This helps to prevent the accumulation of plastic waste in landfills and oceans, reducing harm to wildlife and ecosystems.

2) Natural insecticides: Organic chemistry has also led to the development of natural insecticides, which can be used as an alternative to synthetic pesticides. These insecticides are derived from plant extracts or naturally occurring compounds, making them less harmful to the environment and human health. They can also be targeted to specific pests, reducing the need for broad-spectrum pesticides that can harm beneficial insects and pollinators. This innovation provides a more sustainable solution to pest control and helps to reduce the negative impacts of chemical pesticides on the environment.