Integrating Un Sustainable Development Goals Into Mechanical Engineering Electives: a Modular Approach

Abstract

This paper presents an innovative approach to incorporating the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the Mechanical Engineering curriculum, focusing on elective courses in the third and fourth years of study. The proposed method introduces a standardized 3-h module for each elective, comprising two hours of theoretical instruction and one hour of practical application. This modular approach ensures consistent exposure to sustainability concepts across various specialized topics within Mechanical Engineering. The theoretical component covers relevant SDGs, their implications for engineering practice, and potential technological solutions. The practical segment includes tailored activities, labs, or design challenges that apply sustainability principles to the specific subject matter of each elective. This integration strategy not only enhances students’ understanding of global sustainability challenges but also equips them with the skills to address these issues within their future engineering careers. The paper discusses the development process of these modules, potential challenges in implementation, and preliminary feedback from faculty and students. By systematically embedding sustainability into existing courses, this approach offers a scalable and efficient method for engineering programs to produce graduates who are both technically proficient and sustainability-conscious, ready to contribute to a more sustainable future. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025.