May 2019


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Chemistry is often considered the “central science” because it permeates every aspect of our lives. This is because chemistry investigates molecules, the building blocks of all matter, and how they interact.

Since research is constantly deepening our understanding of chemistry and leading to new discoveries, the 21st Century will continue to see it as crucial in finding sustainable solutions to far-reaching challenges, including energy provision, environmental protection, food and water safety and global healthcare. The global chemical industry is uniquely positioned to help deliver an integrated approach to sustainable development through the creation of products that improve people’s lives.

Considering global advances in the chemical sector the imperative is for the Caribbean to direct greater focus towards its development in the region. The UWI must be at the forefront of this thrust and has articulated its mission “to advance learning, create knowledge and foster innovation for the positive transformation of the Caribbean and the wider world.” To that end the Department of Chemistry of The UWI St Augustine Campus will hold the first “Biennial Regional Conference and Expo on Chemical Science, Technology and Industry” at the UWI Teaching and Learning Complex from May 22 to 24, as part of the Faculty of Science and Technology Week 2019. The theme of the conference is “Chemistry and Chemical Technology for a Sustainable Development of the Caribbean”.

The conference will include noted regional and international researchers, technologists, chemical/biomedical engineers, policy makers and students. The programme will feature distinguished plenary speakers, and oral and poster presentations from researchers, graduate and undergraduate students. Topics include industrial and green chemistry, sustainable energy science/technology, drug discovery, food toxicity, materials science, the innovation process and chemistry education.

The Expo will provide a platform for a range of exhibitors of products, technologies, and research with demonstrations highlighting how chemistry is applied across sectors and in everyday life. The conference welcomes registration and attendance from practitioners in the field, including industry, scientific agencies and academia, and the expo is free to the public. Details about the conference and expo can be found at the coference website: http://conferences.sta.uwi.edu/brcce/.

Dr Richard A Taylor is Lecturer in Inorganic Chemistry at the Department of Chemistry of the Faculty of Science and Technology, UWI St Augustine and Conference Chair of the Biennial Regional Conference and Expo on Chemical Science, Technology and Industry.