CTSA Approach in the Educational Context: Implementation of a Paper Recycling Process and Development of Sustainable Entrepreneurship

Abstract:Background: This experience report presents a project integrating paper recycling and social entrepreneurshipwithin an elective course at a Full-Time Municipal School (EMTI) in Fortaleza’s Municipal Network. Theprimary objective was to document the methodological trajectory and the outcomes of the initiative, promotingCTSA (Science, Technology, Society, and Environment) education and fostering the development ofcompetencies and skills as proposed by the Brazilian National Common Curricular Base (BNCC) and theFortaleza Curriculum Reference Document (DCRFor) among students of Middle School.Materials and Methods: The project comprised practical recycling workshops, research on entrepreneurshipconcepts, and the creation of a digital platform (website/virtual gallery) for exhibiting student-produced items.Activities were designed to integrate technical, social, and environmental learning while engaging students inhands-on experiences aligned with CTSA educational principles.Results: The intervention resulted in increased student participation, enhanced critical thinking, strengthenedenvironmental awareness, and improved technological and social skills. Students demonstrated greaterautonomy, collaborative engagement, and the capacity to connect scientific knowledge with practical, sociallyrelevant actions. Conclusion: The experience confirms the effectiveness of the CTSA approach in developing conscious andengaged citizens. Integrating sustainability practices with social entrepreneurship fosters meaningful learning,reinforces competencies established by the BNCC, and contributes to comprehensive science education.Keywords: CTSA education, paper recycling, social entrepreneurship, science teaching, BNCC competencies.