To make a coffee by bicycle riding: achieving sustainable development in higher education institutions step by step

Abstract Universities are increasingly evaluated for their contributions to sustainability and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, methodologies for assessing higher education institutions’ sustainability indicators are lacking. This study is part of a project aiming to define such indicators and develop evaluation methodologies. Beyond technological and legislative barriers, achieving sustainability involves addressing psychological factors, particularly consumer self-awareness. The goal of the study is to explore how integrating principles of circular economy, upcycling, and unconventional energy sources can contribute to sustainability, with a focus on fostering students’ self-awareness. The experimental study was conducted in the TU-Sofia campus and it was aimed at investigating electrical energy generation through cycling. This is pursued through the assembling of a system for generating electrical energy through cycling to power a coffee machine, aiming to promote sustainable practices among young people. Measurements were taken using calibrated portable devices and included basic data from the cycle ergometer’s microcomputer and electrical properties at various points in the system. The goal was to produce enough energy to brew coffee and as a result to show human efficiency in energy conservation and highlight factors influencing energy generation variability. The study aims to foster sustainable thinking among students, with positive changes observed in attitudes towards energy saving. Participants showed interest in upcycling for energy production, reflecting a growing awareness of sustainability issues. Further research will explore energy conversion efficiency and its implications.