This study presents the findings of a Final Degree Project carried out within the Biotechnology Degree program at the University of the Basque Country. It explores how different population groups prioritize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and perceive their relevance to biotechnology, within the context of the 2030 Agenda. A survey was conducted among 274 participants, segmented by gender and age, and structured in two parts. In the first part, participants selected up to five SDGs they considered most important. These were analyzed individually and grouped using the “5P” framework: People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnership. In the second part, respondents were asked to associate each SDG with key areas of biotechnology.

Analysis of the five most frequently selected SDGs revealed broadly similar prioritization patterns across genders. Both male and female participants identified SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 4 (Quality Education) as the most important goals. However, notable gender-based differences emerged. Males gave higher priority to SDG 3 and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) than females, while females placed significantly more emphasis on SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water) than females. When the selected SDGs were grouped into the 5P categories, those related to “People” consistently ranked highest across all demographic segments, followed by “Peace,” “Planet,” “Prosperity,” and “Partnership.” This general pattern was observed across gender and age groups, with the exception of participants over 65, who interestingly prioritized “Peace” above the other categories.

In the second part of the study, participants’ perceptions of the relationship between biotechnology and the SDGs showed a strong association with SDG 3, consistent across genders and most age groups. However, participants aged 18–25 identified SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) as most strongly linked to biotechnology, rather than SDG 3. SDG 5 (Gender Equality) was consistently seen as the least associated with biotechnology, with no significant gender-based differences. When segmented by age, this pattern remained, although the association between SDG 5 and biotechnology increased slightly with age—suggesting that older individuals may view gender equality as more relevant to biotechnology than younger respondents.

When SDGs were grouped into their corresponding “P” categories to analyze their perceived connection with biotechnology, a shift in prioritization was observed. Regardless of gender or age, respondents considered the “Peace” category the least associated with biotechnology. In contrast, the “Planet,” “Prosperity,” and “People” categories were seen as having the strongest links to biotechnology.

These findings highlight perception trends that can inform targeted communication strategies, educational initiatives, and policy development at the intersection of biotechnology and sustainable development. Understanding how different segments of the population relate biotechnology to the SDGs can enhance engagement and support for the 2030 Agenda. Furthermore, from an educational perspective, this project illustrates how sustainability-related topics can be effectively integrated into undergraduate STEM education through a Final Degree Project.

Keywords: Biotechnology, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), undergraduate STEM education.