The CLEAR initiative (Chemistry Learning for Environmental Action and Responsibility) is an innovative programme within the Chemical Science & Engineering curriculum at the University of Twente. It aims to equip students with the skills and mindset needed to tackle complex global challenges such as climate change, pollution, and greenwashing. By embedding systems thinking into the curriculum, CLEAR enables students to approach sustainability challenges from a holistic perspective, integrating environmental, social, and economic factors into their solutions.
Key pillars of CLEAR
CLEAR is built on three foundational pillars:
- Essential Skills Development: Students acquire 14 key skills to guide their personal and professional growth through the programme.
- Sustainability-Driven Curriculum Enhancement: Systems thinking is seamlessly integrated into courses, helping students develop the ability to analyse and address complex real-world challenges.
- Supportive Learning Environment: A collaborative environment encourages interdisciplinary approaches and proactive problem-solving.
Achievements and Impact
- Skills Integration: CLEAR ensures that students gain essential skills, such as critical thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing them for impactful careers.Curricular Integration: Systems thinking is embedded across the curriculum fostering a comprehensive understanding of sustainability challenges.
- Broader Collaboration: CLEAR extends its impact to high schools in Amsterdam, Gelderland, and Overijssel, inspiring younger generations to embrace sustainability and social responsibility.
- Global Recognition: CLEAR has earned international acclaim, shaping the global conversation on how chemistry education can prepare future leaders to address multifaceted challenges.
Join
The CLEAR project exemplifies the University of Twente’s commitment to empowering students to create a sustainable future. CLEAR is preparing the next generation of leaders to drive meaningful change by combining technical expertise with a systems-thinking approach.
