The Role of Chemistry

Chemistry has been called the central science, connecting all other natural sciences. The knowledge and thought processes of the field of chemistry that observe, understand, change, and utilise the materials that form the natural world directly connect to much of natural science. Likewise, materials and products provided by the chemical industry are connected to many other industries, and play a role in development and provision of compounds with functions required by those industries. The chemical industry could be called the central industry.

I feel that changes in the roles expected of chemistry as an academic discipline and chemistry as an industry have become apparent over the last decade or so. Until now, developing and producing materials and products that make the world convenient, the role of a material producer, has been expected. Henceforth, realisation of an environmentally sustainable construction of a carbon recycling society, the role of solution provider, is also being added. As a solutions provider, our most pressing issue is to break away from our dependence on fossil fuels for raw materials and energy. The raw materials problem in particular can only be resolved by chemical technology.

Chemical methods have also changed greatly in recent years. Advances in AI and MI continue to dramatically change the places of research and manufacturing. We must use these cutting-edge technologies as a driving force to further strengthen chemistry as a central science and industry.

One of Japan's oldest academic societies, the Chemical Society of Japan, will greet its 150th anniversary in 2028, two years from now. It is symbolic that this milestone comes at a time of change when new roles are being expected from chemistry.

The Chemical Society of Japan has long provided opportunities for primary and secondary students to experience chemistry through the Chemistry Lovers Club, the Chemistry Grand Prix (also known as the Chemistry Koushien), and the International Chemistry Olympiad, vigorously promoting the development of highly-skilled personnel and expanding the base of chemistry talent. In addition, chemistry as a central science plays a role in encouraging young people to use chemistry as a gateway to various other fields of natural science.

Chemistry, both academic and industrial, has supported society at times in a leading role and at other times in an indispensable supporting role. The Chemical Society of Japan will continue to support society by bringing together the strengths of industry and academia, and contribute to the realisation of a sustainable future.