Electrocatalytic hydrogenation of acetol (IUPAC: 1-hydroxy-2-propanone), a species formed upon thermal liquefaction of biomass, can be achieved using inexpensive objects: filter paper, coins, batteries, salts, and water. This simple example demonstrates that "green" chemical transformations can be achieved with familiar items and helps students appreciate that chemistry is all around them. It also illustrates reactivity contrasts between nickel and copper as catalytic metals effecting hydrogenation. Reactions can be completed in 2 to 2.5 h and can be analyzed visually on the basis of a color change or more quantitatively with classic visible wavelength spectrophotometers that can be found in almost any high school or undergraduate institution. Reagents used in the experiment are nontoxic and can be easily disposed of safely.