Principle to Practice: Evaluating Analytical Methods in AGREE Prep with Green Analytical Chemistry

Green Analytical Chemistry (GAC) emphasizes the development and implementation of analytical methods that minimize environmental impact while ensuring efficiency, safety, and reliability. The transition from theoretical principles to real-world laboratory application requires systematic evaluation tools that can objectively assess method greenness. AGREE prep, an advanced software based on the 10 principles of Green Sample Preparation, offers a standardized, semi-quantitative approach for evaluating the environmental and sustainability performance of analytical procedures at the sample preparation stage. This review critically examines the use of AGREE prep as a practical decision-making aid in method development, validation, and optimization. The workflow of AGREE prep—from data input, parameter weighting, and scoring, to interpretation of the visual output. Practical case studies are reviewed to illustrate how AGREE prep supports comparative evaluation between conventional and greener alternatives, enabling informed selection of the most sustainable approach without compromising analytical performance. Limitations, such as subjectivity in weighting factors and dependency on accurate data input, are addressed alongside recommendations for best practices. The insights provided in this review aim to serve researchers, method developers, and quality control laboratories seeking to systematically embed sustainability considerations into routine analytical workflows.