Design synthetic methods so that the final product contains the maximum proportion of the starting materials. Waste as few atoms as possible.

Design synthetic methods that use and generate substances with little or no toxicity to humans and the environment.

Design chemical products that are fully effective yet have little or no toxicity.

Avoid using solvents, separation agents, or other auxiliary chemicals. If unavoidable, choose the safest ones available.

Run chemical reactions at ambient temperature and pressure whenever possible.

Use renewable rather than depleting starting materials (feedstocks). Renewable feedstocks are typically derived from agricultural products or waste from other processes; depleting feedstocks are derived from fossil fuels (petroleum, natural gas, or coal) or mining operations.

Avoid blocking or protecting groups or any temporary modifications if possible. Derivatives require additional reagents and generate waste.

Minimize waste by using catalytic reactions. Catalysts are effective in small quantities and can carry out a single reaction many times. They are preferable to stoichiometric reagents, which are used in excess and work only once.

Design chemical products to break down into innocuous substances after use so they do not accumulate in the environment.

Include in-process, real-time monitoring and control during syntheses to minimize or eliminate the formation of by-products.

Design chemicals and their physical forms (solid, liquid, or gas) to minimize the possibility of accidents, including explosions, fires, and releases to the environment.