The German Chemical Society (GDCh), Europe’s largest scientific society in chemistry, has presented its comprehensive “Sustainability Strategy 2030,” underscoring the central role of chemistry in achieving global sustainability goals. The strategy outlines how chemistry can contribute to renewable energy, circular resource management, and emissions reduction. GDCh President Professor Stefanie Dehnen emphasized the society’s responsibility and commitment to lead by example, working with members and expert groups to advance science that supports a livable future.

Key goals of the strategy include a 50% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030, achieving net-zero emissions by 2040, and embedding sustainability across all GDCh operations. Additionally, the GDCh will foster an international network of scientific societies by 2026 to promote green chemistry, encourage inclusive education and scientific participation, and provide unbiased, evidence-based information on sustainability issues.

The strategic framework was developed in 2024 by a dedicated commission and has since received full endorsement from the GDCh board. To oversee its implementation, a new governance structure has been established, including the office of Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO). This role will be held by Professor Herwig Buchholz (pictured on the right), a recognized sustainability expert with leadership experience at Merck and academic affiliations in Germany and the U.S.

Herwig Buchholz, supported by a commission of scientific representatives, will report directly to the GDCh presidency. The GDCh positions itself not only as a scientific authority but also as a proactive societal actor shaping the chemical sciences for long-term environmental and societal benefit.

• Gesellschaft Deutscher Chemiker (GDCh; German Chemical Society), Frankfurt, Germany
• https://www.gdch.de/gdch/nachhaltigkeit.html