Knowledge Base Repository
In addition to research papers, the Design Society is developing several valuable resources for those interested in the study of design. These include a repository of PhD theses, a library of case studies and transcripts of design activities, and an archive of our newsletters. Please note that these resources are accessible exclusively to Design Society members.
FOSTERING ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS THROUGH RECOVERED MATERIALS IN ACADEMIC PROJECTS
Rivas, Adriana; Acuña, Alejandro; Uribe, Esmeralda; Gutiérrez, Luis Miguel
Type:
Year:
2025
Editor:
Bohemia, Erik; Buck, Lyndon; Grierson, Hilary
Author:
Series:
E&PDE
Institution:
Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Architecture, Art and Design; Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Science
Page(s):
271 - 276
DOI number:
ISBN:
3005-4753
ISSN:
978-1-912254-22-4
Abstract:
In an era of growing environmental challenges, design and engineering education must integrate sustainability not only as a theoretical concept but as a hands-on practice. This research explores how the incorporation of recovered, recycled, and upcycled materials, along with circular strategies (R’s), in academic projects can enhance environmental awareness among students in creative and engineering disciplines. Through a mixed-methods study involving surveys, interviews, and case studies across diverse programs in higher education, we examine the effects of using these materials on students' understanding of sustainability, resource conservation, and circular economy principles. Preliminary findings suggest that both design and engineering students engaging with repurposed materials and circular strategies gain a deeper appreciation for environment, material lifecycles, and sustainability, and are more likely to adopt sustainable practices in their respective fields. This paper highlights the transformative role that material choices and circular strategies in academic projects can play in cultivating a sustainability mindset, encouraging innovation in design processes, and promoting ethical responsibility among future designers and engineers.
Keywords:
