“Eco-Lab: Scientific Foundations of Waste Sorting”

       An educational and cognitive event on the topic "Scientific foundations of waste sorting" was held for students within the framework of the "Clean Kazakhstan" republican environmental initiative, organized by the Department of Plasma Physics, Nanotechnologies and Computer Physics.  Its main objective was to develop students’ environmental awareness, increase their responsibility for environmental protection, and explain the scientific principles of proper waste sorting. The event also contributed to the implementation of the SDG 12 — Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 13 — Climate Action and SDG 15 - Life on land .

      The event began with a lecture session, where participants received detailed information about types of household waste, rules for separate collection, and recycling methods. The physical and chemical properties of materials such as plastic, paper, glass, metals, and organic waste were explained, along with their environmental, health, and economic impacts.

      During the practical session, students engaged in group creative work by preparing posters on waste sorting. The posters were presented and defended, allowing each group to justify its ideas. This stage enhanced students’ critical thinking and teamwork skills.

     A quiz was conducted to assess knowledge acquisition, and participants demonstrated high engagement. Additionally, artificial intelligence tools were used to “animate” the posters, highlighting the connection between environmental science and digital technologies.

    At the end of the event, participants shared their reflections and noted a deeper understanding of the importance of waste sorting. Overall, the event, held within the “Clean Kazakhstan” initiative, made a meaningful contribution to promoting environmental awareness and sustainable development principles.