On Sunday 30th June, Cohort 10 flew to Venice to represent the CDT at the annual Green Chemistry Summer School at Ca’Foscari University. Following a welcome event on the Sunday night, the students attended a range of diverse talks given by academics from all over the world. The topics ranged from the generation of sustainable fuel from algae, to the importance of the polar regions to global climate change. The talks were engaging and eye-opening, giving the students a better understanding of the role of Chemistry in sustainability, and inspired them to incorporate the principles of Green Chemistry into their own work.

Lunch and coffee breaks at the university provided the opportunity to socialise with students and academics, and networks were formed and ideas exchanged. A free afternoon on Wednesday gave the students a chance to explore the city, try some of the local delicacies, and take a boat trip to the neighbouring island of Murano, famous for its glass-blowing.

The talks and poster sessions, both online and in person, were delivered by a plethora of captivating international academics, including Paul Anastas, Aurelia Visa and Claudia Barolo. Cohort 10 student - Alexander Uner presented a poster during one of the poster sessions on 'Practical, Metal-Free Synthesis of Difluoroethylamines using Difluoroacetic Acids'. 

Overall, the students had a great time learning about Green and Sustainable Chemistry, building new connections, and enjoying the beautiful city of Venice!