This article outlines the reasons why practical work is declining in schools. Microscale chemistry is put forward as a sustainable way of remedying this. The advantages of its use are outlined, including a description of some practical techniques that can be used to illustrate these advantages. There is also a description of how you can make the transition from the conventional scale of working to microscale. Its validity (in terms of its accuracy) is also described as well as how it can be used across a range of abilities and ages.