This year is the International Year of Chemistry (IYC 2011). The ‘event’ is a worldwide celebration of the achievements of chemistry and its contributions to the well-being of humankind. Under the theme Chemistry—our life, our future, the celebration encompasses a range of interactive, educational activities for all ages. For more information, see the website www.chemistry2011.org, which includes the background to the project and how the Executive Board of UNESCO endorsed the proposal for proclamation by the United Nations of 2011 as an International Year of Chemistry. This was endorsement from the very highest levels.

What about gold and IYC 2011? Later in the year, the World Gold Council will be announcing a specific project focusing on gold chemistry and its important role in scientific developments. Gold chemistry, for example, was used in the creation of the anti-arthritic drug auranofin. Gold electrochemistry was used in the development of the efficient gold plating baths used by the modern electronics industry. Gold surface chemistry was used in the application of functionalised gold nanoparticles in medical diagnostic tests, such as pregnancy testing. Gold catalysis, of course, is now moving from the science phase of development to commercial application. These are just a few examples where chemistry has played a key role in use of the element gold in important practical applications. The forthcoming World Gold Council project will develop this theme further; but in the meantime, enjoy the cutting edge research and topical reviews in Gold Bulletin, with gold and chemistry at its heart.