acaSTEMy 4th hybrid seminar - 17th of September 2025 from 13:30 to 15:00 (CET)
“Green Chemistry for the Future of Society and Industry”
The Interdisciplinary Center for Educational Innovation of the University of Latvia invites you to the AcaSTEMy 4th hybrid seminar titled “Green chemistry for the future of society and industry” by Dr. Chem. Eduards Baķis.
The hybrid seminar will take place on the 17th of September 2025 from 13:30 to 15:00 (CET) at the Interdisciplinary Center for Educational Innovation of the University of Latvia. The first hour of the seminar will be in English by videoconference. The remaining hour of the seminar will be held in Latvian in an in-person format.
The Zoom link for online participants is: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83641107916?pwd=bDsicya1hOgH4ZcagmanCDJpd6kvZA.1
Agenda:
13:30–13:35
Welcoming words from the project coordinator of the Latvian team, Kārlis Greitāns
13:35–14:15
Presentation on "Green Chemistry for the Future of Society and Industry" by Dr.Chem. Eduards Baķis
14:15–14:25
Questions from the audience
14:25–14:55
Discussion with pre-service students and in-service teachers on site
14:55–15:00
Summary of the seminar and closing remarks by Kārlis Greitāns
Abstract
" Green chemistry for the future of society and industry "
The growing challenges of climate change, resource depletion, and environmental pollution call for a fundamental shift in the way chemistry is taught, researched, and practiced. Green chemistry offers a powerful framework for designing chemical processes and products that reduce or eliminate hazardous substances, minimize waste, and use resources more efficiently. This lecture invites pre-service chemistry teachers to explore how the 12 principles of green chemistry can inspire innovations in areas such as renewable energy, sustainable materials, pharmaceuticals, and everyday consumer products. By connecting scientific knowledge with pressing societal needs, green chemistry demonstrates that responsible chemistry is not a limitation but a pathway to creativity, economic growth, and social well-being. Participants will gain insight into how they, as future educators, can integrate these ideas into the classroom—empowering students to see chemistry not only as a subject of formulas and reactions, but also as a discipline that shapes a more sustainable future.
Short Bio- dr. Eduards Baķis
Dr. Eduards Baķis is a Latvian chemist who, after earning his PhD at Imperial College London, returned to Latvia to build his research direction and intellectual space at the University of Latvia. His work focuses on solvent design and sustainable chemical processes, with collaborations across Europe and active engagement in the international scientific community. He is also the organizer of scientific events, including the upcoming 1st Walden Panel on Ionic Liquids in Riga (2026), named after Latvian chemist Paul Walden. Eduards’ motto, “Think slowly”, reflects his belief that chemistry is not just about ready-made inventions but about a process that requires stepping into the shoes of researchers from many disciplines. As a lecturer, he designs and teaches study courses that highlight the societal and industrial relevance of chemistry, inspiring young people to see it as a pathway to sustainability and innovation. From 2020 to 2022, he served on the board of the Latvian Association of Young Scientists and continues to actively support the early-career researcher community.