2011 has been officially designated the International Year of Chemistry. You can download a prospectus  which sets out the aims of the year which was jointly proposed by IUPAC and UNESCO and officially adopted by the UN.  

Essentially the aims are to:

• Improve the understanding and appreciation of chemistry by the public.

• Enhance international cooperation by serving as a focal point or information source for activities by national chemical societies, educational institutions, industry, governmental and non-governmental organizations.

• Promote the role of chemistry in contributing to solutions to global challenges.

• Build capacity by engaging young people with scientific disciplines, especially the scientific method of analysis developed by hypothesis, experiment, analysis and conclusions.

Many different organisations in almost every country in the world are organising events to celebrate and publicise the year. For example, to name but two, the Royal Society of Chemistry and  The American Chemistry Society.

In a small way this website is making a contribution. Since it was launched on 18 January, one week ago, IB Diploma Chemistry teachers from 82 different countries have logged in – IB Diploma Chemistry is definitely international!

What is your country doing and what will you be doing with your students to celebrate this special year?