Abstract
Benefits and risks of chemistry. The benefits of chemistry for mankind are undisputed. Without the discovery and invention of artificial fertilizers the rapidly growing population of the world could not be fed. A fourth of our foodstuffs is currently preserved and improved by crop protection. Besides, an agricultural worker now produces thirty times the amount of agricultural products than was usual fifty years ago. Many developments, such as synthetic fibers and numerous dyes have been made possible only by advances in chemistry; there was a time when dyes were worth their weight in platinum. But what are the risks which chemistry introduces? The basis of chemistry is the conversion of materials. The use of chemical products can lead to interactions with nature, and excessive or uncontrolled usage can in turn endanger life. This biological aspect is the major reason for a wide section of the population being apprehensive about the increasing use of chemical products. An isolated accident involving an explosion leads to a feeling of uncertainty among the populace. One feels that one might be involved oneself at some future date. Thus one of the chief aims in the chemical industry, compared to other branches of industry, is to ensure a very high standard of safety. But the citizen must also be kept wellโinformed. There is always room for improvement in this direction, and false notions and allegations should be repeatedly corrected. Reasonable legislation which allows chemistry to play its important and positive role in the service of mankind will always be welcomed.