Introducing Morgan Ward: A Champion of Green Chemistry at Change Chemistry

We are delighted to introduce Morgan Ward, the newest Program Manager at Change Chemistry. Morgan's journey in green chemistry began during her undergraduate studies after becoming aware of the waste and hazards in the chemical supply chain. This led her to pursue a master’s degree in environmental and green chemistry, exploring safer chemical design and the broader impacts of the chemical industry.

Inspired by Change Chemistry's comprehensive work, Morgan joined the team to contribute to innovative projects and collaborative efforts driving the market toward greener solutions. In this Q&A, she shares her insights and vision for the future of green chemistry.

Can you tell us about your green chemistry journey and what led you to join the Change Chemistry team?

Morgan: I have always been interested in chemistry. However, while earning my undergraduate chemistry degree, I was alarmed by how much waste was produced in labs and the hazards of some chemicals being used. I was also distressed to learn about the chemical industry's negative effects on our communities and environment. After a random Google search led me to green chemistry, I immediately knew I wanted to learn more. I was inspired by the work the community was doing to make chemistry safer and more sustainable, but I also saw firsthand how much work was left. 

I pursued a master’s degree in environmental and green chemistry, taking courses that delved into safer chemical design, fate and transport mechanisms, and, of course, green chemistry. I also studied other disciplines, like public health and policy, to better understand what other drivers are at play in the chemical industry. As my degree was coming to a close, I was itching to use my education in an actionable manner. My coursework provided the skill set and knowledge, and I wanted to use them to make a difference. 

My first meaningful encounter with Change Chemistry was in graduate school when I read the 2021 report on plasticizer substitution. I had been sifting through articles for weeks, and this one stood out to me for how comprehensive it was. The report provided an overview of the landscape, technical data, and case studies all in one place. I wanted to get involved with the organization and signed up for the newsletter, and I was continually inspired by the work being done. When I got the opportunity to join the team, I was thrilled! 

What excites you the most about your role at Change Chemistry, and what do you hope to achieve?

Morgan: What excites me most about joining Change Chemistry is the ability for — and openness toward — innovation. In recent decades, we’ve seen technology develop rapidly, the rise of social media has made information sharing instant, and we are quickly approaching irreversible climate effects. We are in a time like no other, and we need to think like we never have before. Change Chemistry is thinking in this new way. Through collaborative innovation, we are not only looking at what new products or chemicals may be more sustainable but also considering the drivers that could influence implementation. When innovation is occurring in silos, you will inevitably encounter barriers, and I am excited to be at a company that is actively working to bridge different sectors.

With this in mind, I am excited about my role as a Program Manager because I can participate in and encourage actionable, innovative conversations. In the programs, we focus on issues of concern for our members, and every perspective is valuable and necessary as we search for solutions. I value data-driven solutions and look forward to approaching these questions analytically. After completing a program or initiative, I hope the data shows how the program drove the needle forward. Success can be difficult to measure, but I hope that in a few years, I can look back and see how our programs changed the industry. 

How do you see Change Chemistry contributing to the broader field of green chemistry and sustainable practices?

Morgan: For green and sustainable chemistry to become widespread, there must be a system shift. This will require aligning our industries, supply chains and sectors, including research and development efforts, policy and market incentives. Change Chemistry’s membership extends the value chain, and collaboration is central to our efforts. By opening the dialogue in this way, experts can share their challenges and develop aligned priorities and goals. As a result, a collective, amplified voice emerges that is more powerful in driving the market toward greener solutions than one company or individual alone. By facilitating these conversations, Change Chemistry will help accelerate the shift to safer and sustainable chemistry. 

What key projects or initiatives will you work on, and how do they align with Change Chemistry’s goals?

Morgan: As a program manager, I will assist with Change Chemistry’s program strategy and execution. Change Chemistry’s programs are essential for experts across the value chain to collaborate in a secure space. A community of trust and familiarity is built in groups that meet regularly, like the Active Learning Communities. Both are essential for leaders to have critical discussions to advance green and sustainable chemistry. Other programs, like the European Forum, Innovators Roundtable, and webinars, reach our membership and beyond. These events allow our members and the public to engage in focused conversations and act. 

I am excited to be working on Change Chemistry’s webinars. Before joining the organization, I enjoyed attending the webinars because they brought together topic experts and the general green chemistry & sustainability community to have unique conversations; I am excited now to be actively involved. I will also be helping with the Innovators Roundtable, which is an annual event that provides an opportunity for those in a supply chain to collaborate with others in the sustainability and green chemistry space. Post-COVID, in-person events like this are less common but still so essential. 

What are your favorite things to do in your free time?

Morgan: I like to joke that I have a lot of hobbies, and because of that, I’m not particularly good at any of them. With that said, I am an avid reader and enjoy anything from memoirs to science fiction. I also love to do almost anything outside, like hiking, hammocking, and running. I won’t ever miss a day playing the New York Times games – my favorite is Connections! Above all, my favorite way to spend my free time is with my family and friends, whether it's getting outside and doing something active, trying a new restaurant, or just chatting.