EPISODE · Mar 31, 2026 · 32 MIN
S5 E6: From Ionic Liquids to the United Nations: A Life in Sustainable Chemistry
from Lab Matters · host Lab Innovations
What does it mean to make chemistry sustainable? In this episode of Lab Matters, host Jonathan Smith speaks with Tom Welton, the first Professor of Sustainable Chemistry at Imperial College London. Tom reflects on his journey from a North London council estate to becoming a leading voice in sustainable chemistry. Along the way, he shares how early curiosity about atomic structure, inspiring mentors and the emerging environmental movement shaped the direction of his career. The conversation explores the origins of sustainable chemistry, the science behind ionic liquids, and how global environmental thinking transformed the way chemists approach their work. It’s a thoughtful discussion about curiosity, chance, and how scientific ideas evolve alongside the world around them.
What this episode covers
What does it mean to make chemistry sustainable? In this episode of Lab Matters, host Jonathan Smith speaks with Tom Welton, the first Professor of Sustainable Chemistry at Imperial College London. Tom reflects on his journey from a North London council estate to becoming a leading voice in sustainable chemistry. Along the way, he shares how early curiosity about atomic structure, inspiring mentors and the emerging environmental movement shaped the direction of his career. The conversation explores the origins of sustainable chemistry, the science behind ionic liquids, and how global environmental thinking transformed the way chemists approach their work. It’s a thoughtful discussion about curiosity, chance, and how scientific ideas evolve alongside the world around them.
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S5 E6: From Ionic Liquids to the United Nations: A Life in Sustainable Chemistry
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