Kevin Liang
Chemistry is a ubiquitous discipline that models and defines all matter. It is the study of matter (as opposed to anti-matter and dark matter) and the changes matter undergoes through inter- and intramolecular forces. This is why 2011 is marked the International Year of Chemistry (IYC2011). This initiative is from the minds of IUPAC, the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry, and UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization.
Two thousand eleven also coincides with the 100th anniversary of the Noble Prize awarded to Madame Marie Curie for the discovery of polonium and radium, as well as her research in radioactivity. Unfortunately, the large exposure to ionizing radiation caused her to develop aplastic anemia which led to her death. This influenced one of the goals of IYC2011: to celebrate the role of women in chemistry and science. This year is also the 100th anniversary of the founding of the International Association of Chemical Societies, lighting the path for international collaboration.
The opening ceremonies, to be held in Paris, France, will signify the official beginning of the celebrations. The two-day event will be held January 27th to the 28th. Discussions of global trends and perspectives will be the focus of the event. However, there are already events planned before the official launch. From networking breakfasts to science exhibits, IYC2011 is a year to celebrate the achievements of chemistry and its influence on the quality of life on Earth. With the premise, “Chemistry – our life, our future,” the goal is not to ride on past triumphs. The goals are to increase awareness of chemistry in meeting global demands, to spread interest in chemistry among young people, to amplify passion for the future of creative chemistry, and to celebrate the role of woman in the field of science and chemistry. All events held under IYC2011 will have these objectives in perspective.
IYC2011 is a global initiative with events held all across the world. Events will range in target demographics, from preschool children to university students, to the research community. Events will include trips to industrial sites, articles in newspapers and magazines and television programs promoting the contribution of chemistry to the global economic climate, hands-on workshops introducing participants to chemistry related careers, and public lectures relating to recent developments in chemical research. The success of IYC2011 relies on chemical societies and institutions across the globe, and individuals to organize local and regional events. A common theme among these events is to promote chemistry as a creative science that is crucial for sustainable life. Activities like lectures, hands-on experiments, and exhibits will emphasize how chemical research is essential in solving the world most pressing issues such as food, water, health, energy, and transportation. More information on local events, goals, and starting your own IYC2011 initiative can be found on www.chemistry2011.org.
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