Chapter 1

Chemicals and the Environment

Abstract

Contamination by organic chemicals is a global issue, and such toxic chemicals are found practically in all ecosystems because at the end of the various organic chemical lifer cycles the chemicals have either been recycled for further use or sent for disposal as waste. However, it is the inappropriate management of such waste (e.g., through haphazard and unregulated burning) poses negative impacts on human health and the environment. It is the purpose of this chapter in introducing the reader to an understanding of organic chemistry and the role organic can play dealing with the various issues of the environment.

Throughout the pages of this book, the reader will be presented with the definitions ...

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