Turning Waste into Value: Teaching Circular Economy in Chemistry Labs

What is it about?

The research focuses on transitioning from a traditional linear production model to a circular economy model by introducing undergraduate students to waste valorization through a laboratory practice. The methodology involves a simplified adaptation of a previous experiment where metals are recovered from electric arc furnace dust (EAFD) through a four-stage process: acid leaching, selective precipitation, cementation, and precipitation to obtain basic zinc carbonate. This laboratory exercise has been conducted since the 2015-16 academic year with fourth-year Materials Engineering students at the University of Seville and has proven effective in enhancing students' understanding of circular economy concepts. The experiment is suitable for students of various disciplines, such as Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, and can be adapted for introductory levels. Students work in small groups to perform the laboratory practice, and their understanding is evaluated through pre-and post-laboratory questionnaires, showing substantial improvement in more than 75% of participants. The research highlights the successful conversion of hazardous waste into a valuable product, reinforcing the principles of waste minimization and resource reuse.

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Photo by ThisisEngineering on Unsplash

Photo by ThisisEngineering on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This study is important as it provides an educational framework that introduces the concept of circular economy to students, emphasizing the importance of waste minimization and resource recovery in modern production models. By adapting a laboratory practice for recovering metals from electric arc furnace dust (EAFD), the research offers a hands-on approach to teach sustainable practices in engineering and science curricula. The approach not only enhances students' understanding of environmental sustainability but also equips them with practical skills in waste valorization, which are crucial for addressing global challenges related to resource scarcity and environmental conservation. The findings contribute to the broader adoption of circular economy principles in education, fostering a new generation of professionals who prioritize sustainability in their respective fields. Key Takeaways: 1. Educational Impact: The study reports that more than 75% of students improved their understanding of circular economy concepts after participating in the laboratory practice, highlighting the effectiveness of experiential learning in enhancing educational outcomes. 2. Practical Application: The laboratory exercise successfully demonstrates the conversion of hazardous waste (EAFD) into valuable products (basic zinc carbonate), showcasing a practical application of waste valorization principles within a circular economy framework. 3. Broader Applicability: While initially designed for Materials Engineering students, the experiment is suitable for students across various disciplines such as Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, and can even serve as an introductory exercise for students at earlier educational stages, thereby promoting interdisciplinary learning and awareness.