(59b) Integrating Sustainability into Chemical Engineering Education through Project-Based Learning

In response to the growing need for sustainable development and environmental stewardship in the chemical engineering sector, our CHE 201 Introduction to Thermodynamics course has implemented an innovative project-based learning (PBL) strategy aimed at embedding sustainability concepts into the curriculum. This initiative, structured around a comprehensive project where students work in groups, tasks learners with designing a sustainable product or process with significant market potential. The project encompasses several key phases: product selection, current state analysis, sustainable design brainstorming, design evaluation, modeling and prototyping, optional testing, and presentation.By granting students the autonomy to select products ranging from consumer goods to energy storage materials, the project emphasizes the importance of sustainability across various domains. Through a rigorous process that includes life cycle analysis, economic evaluation, and technical assessment, students engage deeply with the complexities of sustainable design. The use of SolidWorks for modeling and UIC MakerSpace technologies for prototyping further enriches the learning experience by providing hands-on exposure to state-of-the-art engineering tools.This educational approach not only enhances students' understanding of thermodynamics and its applications in real-world scenarios but also fosters critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. The project culminates in a digital presentation using Adobe Express, facilitating a modern, accessible, and engaging method of showcasing their work. This talk aims to share insights and outcomes from integrating sustainability into chemical engineering education, contributing to the development of environmentally conscious future engineers.