In an exclusive conversation with Sreevalli Bokka, a distinguished chemical engineering professional with profound expertise in material science and engineering, we explore her fervent advocacy for sustainable chemical practices and environmental innovation that transcends the confines of the laboratory.
Sreevalli’s background in chemical engineering positions her uniquely for the ideation, development, and manufacture of products. Focusing on her recent endeavours in the polymer industry, she provides insights into the intricate process of developing a new polymeric filter membrane. Beyond the requisite scientific understanding of polymer properties, Sreevalli emphasizes the critical importance of considering finished product needs. This encompasses testing, safety parameters, quality assurance, structural integrity, packaging considerations, and a keen awareness of the environmental impact.
In the face of escalating concerns regarding climate change, Sreevalli underscores the pivotal role that chemical engineers play in developing processes that are not only sustainable but also environmentally friendly. She highlights the imperative to transform raw materials into finished products with heightened efficiency, reducing waste, capturing emissions, and minimizing the overall environmental footprint.
Sreevalli’s insights extend to the evolving landscape of national and international laws and initiatives designed to regulate the use of chemicals. She references key examples such as the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), the United States Environment Protection Agency (EPA), the Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA), and the European Union’s Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) laws. According to Sreevalli, these regulations serve as a crucial framework, ensuring the protection of human health, the environment, and the adherence to sustainable chemical practices.
Drawing from her experiences in the research and development (R&D) sector, Sreevalli shares her key learnings, placing emphasis on designing processes with renewable materials and optimizing each step for efficiency. Additionally, she highlights the significance of adhering to stringent quality and safety standards, minimizing waste generation, improving overall process efficiency, and reducing the potential for risks and accidents. Sustainable chemistry practices, Sreevalli notes, can significantly contribute to the development of formulations that align with environmental goals. This includes the avoidance of hazardous chemicals, the use of biobased materials, and the utilization of materials that can be easily degraded, ultimately resulting in a net negative environmental impact.
Sreevalli’s vision extends beyond the laboratory setting to the manufacturing sector, where multinational companies are adapting by providing regulatory training to keep employees abreast of recent changes enforced by regulatory bodies such as the US EPA, TSCA, and REACH laws. This proactive approach serves to create awareness among professionals in the industry, including chemists, chemical engineers, and R&D experts. The training encourages a collective focus on sustainable and environmentally friendly chemical practices.
In conclusion, Sreevalli Bokka’s advocacy transcends the laboratory, urging professionals in the field to amalgamate innovation, design, and development to create finished products that not only meet customer needs but also adhere to the highest standards of sustainability and environmental friendliness. Positioned at the forefront of change, Sreevalli stands as a beacon for the chemical engineering community, championing the cause of sustainable practices and environmental innovation. As the industry continues its shift towards a more conscious and responsible future, Sreevalli’s insights serve as a guiding light for professionals seeking to make a positive impact in their respective fields.
