Celebrate Chemistry

Did you know that 2011 was proclaimed the International Year of Chemistry (IYC) by the United Nations? This is a year of worldwide recognition and celebration of the achievements of chemistry and its contribution to the well-being of humankind.

The IYC 2011 aims to increase the public appreciation and understanding of chemistry, increase young people's interest in science, and generate enthusiasm for the creative future of chemistry.

Key element of inspiration
2011 is the 100th anniversary of Marie Curie's receipt of the Nobel Prize for chemistry. Marie became the first person ever to win two Nobel Prizes. She was also the first female recipient of any Nobel Prize.

Marie and her husband Pierre pioneered the study of radioactivity and discovered two new elements, radium and polonium. The pair had to process tons of minerals under horrific conditions to extract tiny amounts of radium.

That’s why the IYC 2011 will provide a platform for the celebration of women in science.

Chemistry – Our Life, Our Future
IYC 2011 events will also emphasize that chemistry is a creative science essential for sustainability and improvements to our way of life. Chemistry will play a major role in developing alternative energy sources and in feeding the world's growing population. 

Activities, such as lectures, exhibits, and hands-on experiments, will explore how chemical research is critical for solving our most vexing global problems involving food, water, health, energy, transportation, and more.

Get involved
You can participate in the IYC 2011 in many different ways. Visit http://www.chemistry2011.org to get involved and to learn more about the IYC goals, timeline activities, network, resources…