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Ateneo Science Educators and Researchers in Virtual
Engagement (SERVE) 2020 Ateneo de Manila University
School of Science and Engineering
MS Science Education Program of Biology Department

Integration of Green Chemistry Principles in the Grade 8 Science Laboratory

a b c
Lovelyn B. Balbedina, Nestor S. Valera, PhD, Catherine Genevieve B. Lagunzad, PhD

a b
School of Science and Engineering, Ateneo de Manila University Department of Chemistry, School of
c
Science and Engineering, Ateneo De Manila University, Biology Department,
Ateneo de Manila University Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City, Philippines
Corresponding Author: lovelyn.balbedina@obf.ateneo.edu
panyangbalbedina@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

The paper assessed the Green Chemistry laboratory manual prepared by the researcher, which
integrated the five out of the twelve Green Chemistry principles. These principles include the prevention of
waste, design for safer chemical use, design for degradation, design for energy efficiency, and design for
inherently safer chemicals for accident prevention. The experimental group incorporated these five
principles into its eight laboratory experiments and activities. The control group experienced regular
teaching and flipped classroom intervention. The analysis of the cost of materials and manual evaluation
were conducted to prove that integration has been achieved. Results showed no significant difference
between the experimental and control groups’ academic achievement. Both have attained the same level of
proficiency, so the range of conceptual learning is also the same. Even so, the experimental group has the
advantages of a more sustainable approach in their science laboratory. In the Green Chemistry laboratory,
materials can be found in every household, reagents are non-hazardous, and heating sources are more
energy efficient. The students realized the significance of the integration in the science laboratory and
real-life applications. Students also developed their environmental awareness. The accompanying laboratory
manual emphasizing the principles of Green Chemistry has been well received by teachers and students.
Cost analysis showed that the materials in the Green Chemistry laboratory cost lesser than those used in a
conventional laboratory. Other schools lacking the conventional laboratory facilities can adopt a Green
Chemistry laboratory, which offers more sustainable methods and resources to provide for the experiments
and activities.

Keywords: green chemistry, sustainability, environmental education, laboratory, chemical lifecycle

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