Evaluating the Environmental Profile of Microemulsions through a Student-Developed Computational Tool for Teaching Green Chemistry

High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide Oil spills in coastal environments pose significant ecological risks and offer a relevant context for teaching Green Chemistry through authentic problem-solving. Although microemulsions are effective for hydrocarbon removal from sandy substrates, many formulations still rely on fossil-based components, raising concerns regarding environmental sustainability. This study reports the development and classroom implementation of MEGreen, an online computational tool created by secondary-level vocational students to support learning about the environmental performance of microemulsion formulations. The tool was designed as part of an educational process in which students actively engaged in evaluating sustainability criteria, interpreting data, and making evidence-based decisions. It enables users to assess the alignment of microemulsions with the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry by considering parameters such as renewable feedstock origin, toxicity, flammability, stability, and energy demand. To support interpretation and comparison, the platform generates a visual scoring system inspired by the AGREE metric and adapted to the context of environmental remediation. Through this process, students explored trade-offs between technical efficiency and environmental responsibility, strengthening systems thinking, critical analysis, and decision-making skills. Beyond its function as a decision-support tool, the platform serves as an educational resource for chemistry and chemical engineering courses, particularly within sustainability-oriented curricula. By integrating Green Chemistry principles, computational modeling, and real-world environmental challenges, the tool promotes meaningful learning experiences and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 13 and 15), contributing to the development of environmentally responsible and scientifically literate professionals.