Chemical compounds compose all of the living and non-living aspects of our environment.
Understanding of the chemical composition and chemical processes of our environment is a critical foundation of environmental science. Human impacts on the chemical composition and chemical processes of our environment are growing, and this is reflected in increasing concern for monitoring and regulation of chemical alterations of our environment. The chemistry area of emphasis is designed to broadly educate students in environmental science, with more in-depth study of the chemical composition and processes of our environment. Environmental chemistry issues frequently become legal issues. There is a societal need for individuals trained in chemistry, environmental science, and law.