Book excerpt: The two-volume reference work Chemical Technology and the Environment provides readers with knowledge on contemporary issues in environmental pollution, prevention and control, as well as regulatory, health and safety issues as related to chemical technology. It introduces and expands the knowledge on emerging "green" materials and processes and "greener" energy technology, as well as more general concepts and methodology including sustainable development and chemistry and green chemistry. Based on Wiley's renowned, Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology, this compact reference features the same breadth and quality of coverage and clarity of presentation found in the original.