Eco-friendly chemistry classes safer, cheaper for schools

MIDDLETOWN, DE — A Middletown High School chemistry class has implemented "A Natural Approach to Chemistry," providing a safer environment for students and saving the district $25,000 in hazardous waste hauling fees, according to The News Journal.

According to the story, the program, developed by Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) physicist Thomas Hsu, uses no Bunsen burners or any dangerous metals and chemicals during experiments or demonstrations.

Instead, students use environmentally- and student-safe products like water, vinegar and food coloring that can be thrown out without the need for hazardous waste disposal, reducing the risk of dangerous chemical exposure to building occupants, the story stated.

According to Kelli Martin, education associate for science/environmental education in Delaware, the program also eliminates the disposal costs for hazardous and extra materials, usually around $25,000, the story noted.

Martin said: "With this program, this [fee] will be reduced to zero."