Celebrating the International Year of Chemistry
Humankind’s understanding of the material nature of our world is grounded, in particular, in our knowledge of chemistry. Education in and about chemistry is critical in addressing challenges such as global climate change, in providing sustainable sources of clean water, food and energy and in maintaining a wholesome environment for the wellbeing of all people. The science of chemistry and its applications produce medicines, fuels, metals and virtually all other manufactured products.
The year 2011, now being celebrated as the International Year of Chemistry, also provides the opportunity to celebrate the contributions of women to science on the one-hundredth anniversary of the awarding of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry to Maria Sklodowska-Curie.
At its 63rd session in December 2008, the United Nations General Assembly declared 2011 the International Year of Chemistry, with the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as the leading UN Agency together with its partner, the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC).