The objective of this educational initiative was to design and implement a set of practical activities focused on environmental sustainability, with the dual purpose of increasing interest among high school students and serving as an introductory seminar to university-level studies in sustainability-related disciplines. These activities were specifically tailored for both baccalaureate and vocational training students, ensuring that the content was accessible and engaging across different academic profiles.

The practical sessions were developed to be hands-on and experiential, allowing students to directly interact with concepts such as waste management, renewable energy, and sustainable resource utilization. A central theme of the activities was the valorisation of organic wastes as a sustainable and environmentally friendly energy source. This approach aimed to shift students’ perception of waste from a problem to be managed, to a valuable resource that can be transformed and reintegrated into the energy cycle.

Through these activities, students were introduced to the basic principles of bioenergetic valorisation. They learned how organic materials can be converted into energy through biological and thermochemical processes, gaining insight into the environmental benefits of such transformations. The sessions included simplified explanations of anaerobic digestion, fermentation, and other relevant processes, helping students understand the science behind sustainable energy production.

In addition to theoretical knowledge, students had the opportunity to work with laboratory equipment commonly used in energy valorisation process schemes. This exposure allowed them to observe and identify the main transformations taking place during the conversion of waste into energy. They also learned to interpret material and energy balances, and to understand the flow diagrams that represent these processes in industrial and academic contexts.

The response from students was overwhelmingly positive. They showed a high level of interest in both the environmental and energetic dimensions of sustainability. Many expressed a deeper awareness of the global impact of environmental issues and the importance of sustainable practices. The opportunity to carry out these activities within a university setting was particularly motivating, as it provided a glimpse into higher education and potential career paths in science, engineering, and environmental studies.

Overall, the initiative successfully achieved its goals of fostering environmental awareness, introducing students to key sustainability concepts, and inspiring them to consider further studies in related fields. The combination of practical engagement, academic exposure, and real-world relevance proved to be an effective strategy for promoting sustainability education among young learners.

Keywords: High School, environmental sustainability, Practical activity, Environmental science and engineering.