The project

Aligning chemistry education with the green and digital transitions

Project description

Building a platform of vocational excellence in sustainable chemistry

GreenChem establishes a Platform of Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVE) in sustainable chemistry that supports existing regional skills ecosystems through curriculum reform, open and flexible training, and applied research — while bridging the gap between the chemical industry and VET education.

The project brings together industry representatives, VET providers, higher-education and research institutions, and policymaking agents from ten countries. Its first goal is to update job profiles and reform VET chemistry curricula for the green and digital transitions, fostering green-chemistry competences while leveraging digital technologies.

It also drives flexible, market-adapted VET and upskilling through open educational materials, strengthens the knowledge triangle with applied-research modules, and fosters green entrepreneurship through start-up incubation and coaching. The result is a system-level influence through transferable curricula, policy frameworks and stakeholder dialogue.

At a glance

Project ID
101259580
Programme
Erasmus+ CoVE
Duration
48 months
Partners
22 organisations
Countries
10
EQF levels
3–8

Relevance

A socially inclusive, equitable approach to green chemistry

GreenChem ensures sustainability transitions benefit all citizens, integrating ethical, regulatory and community perspectives so professionals understand the impact of chemical innovation on public health, environmental justice and society.

Interdisciplinary

Connecting green chemistry with its societal and ethical dimensions.

Inclusive outreach

Accessible VET for low-skilled workers and those facing job insecurity, with accessibility for people with disabilities.

Open resources

E-learning modules, guides and a tailored MOOC, plus micro-credentials aligned with the ELM and EQAVET.

The need

Closing the gap between VET and industry

Green chemistry is still rarely taught in undergraduate programs, and the chemical industry is ahead of academia in adopting it — creating a real skills mismatch.

  • Update curricula to emphasise green-chemistry principles and replace outdated methods.
  • More time and support for faculty to redesign courses, plus affordable lab equipment and training.
  • Collaborations with research and industry labs to bridge gaps until commercial solutions exist.
  • Project-based learning and labs that teach real-world sustainability.
  • Upskilling VET teachers, with policy involvement to align education with sustainability goals.

European added value

A transnational consortium driving systemic change

GreenChem unites 22 partners from 10 European countries to embed green-chemistry principles into VET and higher education (EQF 3–8). It complements initiatives such as ChemSkills, DigiChem and GREENOVET, and contributes to the European Education Area and the Pact for Skills.

Network of Centres of Vocational Excellence in Green and Digital Chemistry.

Project Number: 101259580

Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.