Circular chemistry in the digital era

"<< Background >>This project addressed the need to tackle urgent global challenges linked to climate change, environmental sustainability and education. The rise in temperatures and greenhouse gas emissions have made it imperative to adopt sustainable practices across industries, with the chemical industry playing a key role in the transition to a circular economy. Circular chemistry, which emphasizes lifecycle thinking and waste-free processes, can significantly contribute to this shift, optimizing resource use while creating value. Despite its potential, widespread adoption is hindered by a lack of awareness, specialized training, and interest in STEM subjects among young people.This project aims to fill these gaps by embedding the concept of circularity into chemistry education. It focuses on equipping high school students with critical digital and scientific skills while inspiring them to embrace sustainability. Teachers also need innovative methods and professional development to integrate circular economy principles into their curricula effectively. The project supports Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) as outlined by the UN and the European Commission, addressing uneven implementation of ESD in chemistry education.<< Objectives >>1. Students are interested in studying circular chemistry through the use of digital tools innovative games and at the same time to motivate them to prepare experiments at home.2. Promote CE principles and ESD core competencies within chemistry education through the developing digital learning environments.3. Support the continuous professional development of teachers according to the ELL approach by applying practical and innovative tools to promote CE in secondary schools.<< Implementation >>Development of a school curriculum ""Circular chemistry in the digital era"" with theory on different concepts related to circular chemistry as well as practical activities.Designed and disseminated educational videos ""The fun side of chemistry"" with knowledge and experimentsCreated and disseminated ""Circular Chemistry - Digital Educational Game"", an interactive way of learning and applying the new acquired knowledge to real life examples through choice scenarios to complete a mission.<< Results >>1 curriculum with 6 modules about circular chemistry with circular economy principles, with 18+ activities adapted for physical and distance learning.1 YouTube channel with 18 educational videos with explained circular chemistry concepts and detailed tutorials of experiments to be carried out at school or at home.1 educational game available on app for mobile phones and other device, an interactive way of learning and applying the new acquired knowledge to real life examples through choice scenarios to complete a circular chemistry-related mission, with the potential to inspire changes in the community, and a way to test the gained knowledge about circular chemistry. It also fosters engagement, teamwork and critical thinking as the mission can be completed in groups and requires critical thinking for certain resource questions.Over 150 high schools students from the 3 partner countries involved in the use and testing."