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Relevance and prospective study of the
chemical professional in the national, regional
and current world scenario
Estudio de pertinencia y prospectivo del profesional
químico en el escenario nacional, regional y mundo
actual
Dennys Almachi–Villalba
Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito 170521, Ecuador
Facultad de Ciencias Químicas
dpalmachi@uce.edu.ec
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6316-0314
Myrian Yépez–Padilla
Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito 170521, Ecuador
Facultad de Ciencias Químicas
mmyepez@uce.edu.ec
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9339-3813
Elithsine Espinel–Armas
Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito 170521, Ecuador
Facultad de Ciencias Químicas
eeespinel@uce.edu.ec
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5800-7035
Christian Alcívar–León
Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito 170521, Ecuador
Facultad de Ciencias Químicas
cdalcivar@uce.edu.ec
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6987-3107
(Received on: 06/02/2024; Accepted on: 15/03/2024; Final version received on: 15/06/2024)
Suggested citation: Almachi-Villalba, D., Yépez-Padilla, M. Espinel-Armas, E. y Alcívar-León,
C. (2024). Relevance and prospective study of the chemical professional in the national,
regional and current world scenario. Revista Cátedra, 7(2), 40-59.
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Abstract
This research aimed to highlight the importance of chemical professionals at national,
regional and global levels; for this, a systematic review was conducted to demonstrate the
capabilities of chemical professionals who are closely linked to regulations set by the
Ecuadorian Institute of Standardization (INEN), Codex Alimentarius, among others that
govern the operations of companies to research and develop products of various economic
sectors with quality. Regarding the linkage of chemical professionals in a global context, the
literature review made it possible to align the profile of the chemical professional with the
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), providing the basis for curriculum design or
professional training content. On the other hand, surveys were conducted to
representatives of companies in the industrial sector related to chemistry to consult cleaner
production activities in the framework of the SDGs, where waste recycling stood out with
30.43%. To deepen the responses, focus groups were conducted, where company
representatives expressed a clear interest in closer ties with academic institutions to access
updated knowledge, continuous training and advice. In addition, they highlighted the need
for chemical professionals to possess leadership, teamwork and effective communication
skills. These findings show the need to strengthen collaboration between industry and
academia to improve the implementation of sustainable practices in companies where
chemical professionals have a relevant role in solving environmental challenges and
promoting sustainable practices in various economic sectors.
Keywords
Curriculum design, relevance study, Sustainable Development Goals, chemical
professionals.
Resumen
La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo destacar la importancia de los profesionales
químicos a nivel nacional, regional y global; para esto, se realizó una revisión sistemática
para evidenciar las capacidades de los profesionales químicos que están estrechamente
vinculados a normativas señaladas por el Instituto Ecuatoriano de Normalización (INEN),
Codex Alimentarius, entre otras que rigen las operaciones de empresas para investigar y
desarrollar productos de diversos sectores económicos con calidad. Respecto a la
vinculación de los profesionales químicos en un contexto global, la revisión bibliográfica
permitió alinear el perfil del profesional químico con los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible
(ODS), proporcionando la base para el diseño curricular o contenidos de formación
profesional. Por otra parte, se realizaron encuestas a representantes de empresas del sector
industrial afines a la química para consultar actividades de producción más limpia en el
marco de los ODS, donde el reciclaje de residuos destacó con un 30.43%. Para profundizar
en las respuestas se realizaron grupos focales, donde los representantes de empresas
expresaron un claro interés en estrechar lazos con las instituciones académicas para
acceder a conocimientos actualizados, capacitación continua y asesoramiento. Además,
resaltaron la necesidad de que los profesionales químicos posean habilidades de liderazgo,
trabajo en equipo y comunicación efectiva. Estos hallazgos evidencian la necesidad de
fortalecer la colaboración entre industria y academia para mejorar la implementación de
prácticas sostenibles en las empresas donde los profesionales químicos tienen un rol
relevante en la resolución de desafíos ambientales y en la promoción de prácticas
sostenibles en diversos sectores económicos.
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Palabras clave
Diseño curricular, estudio de pertinencia, Objetivos Desarrollo Sostenible, profesionales
químicos.
1. Introduction
Higher education denotes an important responsibility in the face of emerging challenges
such as climate change, globalization and technology in society. The problem in higher
education in terms of professional training relevant to social needs lies in a disconnection
between the academic curriculum and the changing demands of society. Therefore, the
relevance of the careers should be reviewed and updated on an ongoing basis, and thus
ensure that academic programs are aligned with reality and that they are executed around
theories and pedagogical models relevant to reality and the social environment.
The analysis of the role of the chemical professional in the current context takes into
account macro guiding documents such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),
Constitution of the Republic of Ecuador, National Development Plan for the New Ecuador
2024-2025, among others. In the local context, the Development and Land Management
Plan 2019-2023 of the Prefecture of Pichincha, an area of geographic influence due to the
location of the Faculty of Chemical Sciences of the Central University of Ecuador, is
considered. On September 25, 2015, world leaders agreed on the "Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs) to be achieved by 2030, these global goals are directly linked to eradicating
poverty, protecting the planet and ensuring prosperity for all" (UN, 2023, p. 21). In this
sense, "scientific research and investment in new technologies, in strategic industrial
sectors generate an environment of competitiveness, sustainable economic development
that promotes poverty eradication" (Haro-Sarango et al., 2023, p. 12). In addition, the
chemical professional can promote innovation and the implementation of sustainable
technologies, such as clean production, recycling of materials and efficient resource
management, and the implementation of environmentally friendly practices in various
industrial sectors.
Particularly, when analyzing the SDGs in accordance with the main industries of the country,
where the chemical professional would have influence, his contribution is linked to sectors
such as Agroindustrial (Agriculture, livestock, forestry and fishing), mining and quarrying
and manufacturing industries, and therefore, directly with economic growth (SDG8), which
in parallel correlates with the SDGs such as end of poverty (SDG1), zero hunger (SDG2),
industry - innovation and infrastructure (SDG9).
The chemical professional plays an essential role in protecting the planet, specifically in
critical areas such as clean water and sanitation (SDG6), where their expertise in
wastewater treatment and water purification contributes to ensuring access to safe
drinking water for communities. With regard to climate action (SDG13), chemists work on
developing renewable energy technologies and reducing emissions, thus addressing the
challenges of climate change. Furthermore, in the area of affordable and clean energy
(SDG7), chemical professionals are involved in the research and application of methods to
produce energy sustainably and efficiently. In the preservation of underwater life and
terrestrial ecosystems (SDG14 and SDG15), chemists play a key role in pollution
management, the development of biodegradable materials and the conservation of
biodiversity, contributing to protecting life in the oceans and on land (UN, 2023).
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Therefore, the objective of this research focuses on highlighting the importance of chemical
professionals at national, regional and global levels based on the requirements of the
employer sector.
As for the content of the manuscript, the methodological procedures applied to fulfill the
purpose of the research are presented, followed by the main results of the focus groups and
the survey applied to representatives of the industrial sector of incidence of the chemical
professional and possible labor niches, to finally establish the conclusions of the study.
1.1 Methodology
1.2 Approach
The study is aligned with the theoretical assumptions that govern the sociocritical
paradigm, according to the articulation of qualitative and quantitative data, to better
interpret the context and requirements of the chemical professional in the current local and
national scenario. The research level is descriptive-cross-sectional.
It was based on the bibliographic analysis of relevant normative and regulatory elements,
such as the declaration of SDGs, Constitution of the Republic of Ecuador, Development and
Land Management Plan 2019-2023 of the Prefecture of Pichincha, Development Plan for the
New Ecuador 2024-2025 among others, to determine the gaps or dilemmas of the
profession that require addressing from higher education and clarify the structuring cores
for the formation of the chemistry professional and conclude with the relevance of the
Chemistry Career.
These results were complemented with the application of questionnaires on the challenges
for the pertinent and adequate training for the needs of the employer sector. The
questionnaire was structured according to the study variables: industrial sector in relation
to the objectives of sustainable development and the role of the chemical professional, these
variables were derived in dimensions and their corresponding indicators that guided the
content of the data collection instrument. Once structured, the questionnaire was validated
by the judgment of three experts who reviewed and observed the correspondence of the
data collection instrument with the research objective, variables and dimensions, as well as
the appropriate use of language and response scale.
Subsequently, focus groups were held, in which criteria were obtained from the
representatives of the national industry on the current and expected role of the chemical
professional. These elements allowed the situational analysis or diagnosis regarding the
potential participation of the chemical professional in terms of the tensions or social
requirements determined in the current regulations and proposals made by the business
sector linked to the work environment of the chemist.
1.2 Sample
The sample was made up of representatives of the national industry linked to the field of
chemistry. The sampling was non-probabilistic and intentional, since it was aimed at people
linked to the chemical industry, who could provide the best criteria on the sector's
requirements and who gave their informed consent to participate. In the first instance, in
order to apply a questionnaire through the Microsoft Forms platform, representatives of the
industrial sector of the areas related to chemistry in the city of Quito were called by e-mail
and direct message, with the collaboration of the Quito Chamber of Commerce and the
Association of Chemists of Ecuador. Subsequently, in order to deepen the responses
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provided, with a qualitative analysis, the 51 respondents were invited by e-mail and direct
message to participate in a focus group, of which 17 people agreed to contribute
anonymously.
1.2 Data processing
To establish the content of the questionnaire, the study variables were operationalized
according to the instructions in Table 1.
Variable
Indicators
Industrial sector vis-à-vis
relevant sustainable
development objectives
Degree of implementation of
cleaner production processes in
the company.
Degree of interest in receiving
training from universities.
Level of skills demanded by the
industrial sector
Table 1. Operationalization matrix for variables
The responses to the questionnaire were tabulated, organized, filtered and presented with
graphs to obtain orderly and comprehensible information. The statistical treatment of the
results was approached through the use of descriptive statistical tools (bar and pie charts).
Relative frequencies corresponding to the response options of the questions that formed
part of the questionnaires were established. In addition, a series of filters were established
to set contexts in obtaining more specific frequencies and graphs for a given variable
(questionnaire question).
The graphs were obtained with the help of Power BI Desktop software which is a free
application from Microsoft and aims to centralize large volumes of data to produce impact
graphs to aid decision-making. Regarding the qualitative analysis, the focus group was
conducted on two different dates, in 2023, through the Zoom platform, where groups were
generated depending on the area in which the participants worked; food and beverages for
human consumption, food and supplies for animal consumption, construction and/or
metallurgy, plastics, leather and textiles, agrochemicals and environmental. The groups
were led by professionals related to each area. Subsequently, open questions were asked,
validated by experts, related to the field and spheres of action of the chemical professional.
The focus group questions were derived from the categorization matrix, which served as a
basis for the semi-structured interview with the following categories:
Interest in receiving training from the Universidad Central del Ecuador
Interest in solving problems presented by companies
Cleaner production alternatives in the workplace.
The results obtained were transcribed and analyzed to determine points of agreement and
disagreement, which allowed for a more holistic analysis of the importance of the role of the
chemist in the industrial scenario.
2. Results and discussions
The results are presented on the basis of three methodological procedures followed:
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1. Bibliographic review of regulations and legal basis to establish the relevance of the
professional in terms of these regulations and legal basis.
2. Results of the questionnaire.
3. Results of focus groups.
1.2 Contributions of the chemical professional in the national, regional and
current world scenario.
Table 2 shows the contribution of chemical professionals in three important productive
sectors in Latin America and the Caribbean, for example, with their scientific knowledge in
instrumental chemistry the quality of the soil is determined, promoting productivity in the
agricultural and livestock sector, therefore, chemical professionals can contribute to SDG 1
(End Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger). "More than 700 million people in the world live in
extreme poverty, where its main causes are: unemployment, social exclusion and the high
vulnerability of some populations to disasters, diseases and other phenomena that prevent
them from being productive" (UN, 2023, para. 10). Chemical professionals contribute to
poverty eradication (SDG 1), because, through their scientific knowledge, they enable
industrial development (SDG 9) leading to economic growth and employment generation
(SDG 8).
To illustrate the above, Table 2 highlights the importance of chemical parameters to
determine the quality of manufactured products such as flour. The manufacturing sector
has a higher percentage of annual growth rate (8.6) with respect to other productive
sectors, this is mainly due to innovation and development of new products (SDG 9), where
chemical professionals can contribute with their knowledge. In addition, strengthening
industrial development generates economic growth (SDG 8), which results in job creation
and poverty reduction (SDG 1).
Production
sector
Millions of
dollars
Annual
growth rate
(Percentage))
Role of the professional chemist
Agriculture,
livestock,
hunting,
forestry, and
fishing
259 972.2
1.5
AGRICULTURE: NTE INEN-ISO 10382
indicates that soil quality is
determined through the quantification
of organochlorine pesticides and
polychloride biphenols by gas
chromatography with electronic
capture detection (INEN, 20114).
Mining and
quarrying
190 449.0
4.4
The essential chemical element for
battery production is lithium, where
Latin America accounts for 52% of
world reserves, located in Chile (41%)
and Argentina (10%) (ECLAC, 2023b)..
Manufacturing
industries
678 046.5
8.6
The Codex Alimentarius states that
edible cassava flours must comply
with several quality parameters such
as: crude fiber (max. 2.0%), ash (max.
3.0%), food additives and certain
particle size if it is considered fine or
coarse flour (CODEX ALIMENTARIUS,
2019).
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Table 2 Role of the chemical professional in the different productive sectors in Latin America (UN, 2022)
On the other hand, lithium has been considered an important resource in Latin America,
however, its extraction requires abundant water; therefore, chemical professionals can
contribute with scientific knowledge to develop research focused on a circular economy in
the mining sector, as ECLAC has already done in its expert workshop "From traditional
mining to sustainable mining: a comprehensive approach" (ECLAC, 2023a). In this context,
the National Survey of Employment, Unemployment and Underemployment (ENEMDU)
reports that in April 2023 there was 4.0% unemployment in Ecuador (INEN, 2023). In this
aspect, the chemistry career would have a significant contribution because the objectives
and contents of the subjects seek to train professionals with knowledge to implement new
businesses in the chemical area, which results in increasing and promoting employment.
A similar alternative is mentioned in objective 5 of the economic axis of the Development
Plan for the New Ecuador 2024-2025, which consists of promoting production in a
sustainable manner, improving productivity levels to reduce unemployment and improve
the quality of life of Ecuadorians (SENPLADES, 2024).
Considering the local level; according to results from the Central Bank of Ecuador, poverty
in the province of Pichincha for 2019 was 13% (Pichincha, 2019). Table 3 shows the role of
chemical professionals in the development of different economic activities that contribute
to the sustainable development objectives: food, metallurgy, chemical products, plastics,
textiles and leather.
Economic
activity
Thousands
of dollars
Role of the chemist
Meat
processing and
preservation
754.085
To preserve the health of consumers, meat products
should not contain residues of pesticides or their
metabolites and residues of veterinary drugs; for
example, the maximum limit of benzylpenicillin in beef
is 50ug/Kg (CODEX ALIMENTARIUS, 2021a). For the
quantification of these residues, instrumental methods
are required that can be carried out by chemical
professionals. In addition, chemical professionals can
conduct research for the development of new methods
that are economical and environmentally friendly, e.g.,
biosensors (Prado et al., 2015).
Processing of
vegetable and
animal oils and
fats
452.762
The Codex Alimentarius establishes maximum limits for
iron and copper in different types of oils, using the
atomic absorption method in a graphite furnace
(CODEX ALIMENTARIUS, 2021b). This method can only
be performed by professional chemists.
Dairy product
processing
583.883
The NTE INEN-ISO 1740:2013 standard details the
procedure for determining the acidity of milk fat and its
derivatives through titration with tetra-n-
butylammonium hydroxide (INEN, 2013c).
Processing of
milling, bakery
906.885
The NTE INEN-ISO 20483:2013 standard indicates the
Kjeldahl procedure to determine the nitrogen and crude
protein content in cereals and legumes. The
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and noodle
products
development of these procedures requires
professionals with extensive knowledge in analytical
chemistry and industrial safety. (INEN, 2013b)
Sugar
processing
4.616
The Codex Alimentarius has determined several
physicochemical parameters to determine the quality of
sugar; for example, conductivity, inversion by polarized
light, pH, color. In addition to parameters involving
starch quantification (CODEX ALIMENTARIUS, 2022).
Cocoa,
chocolate and
confectionery
processing
653.985
Codex Alimentarius determines the analytical methods
for the quantification of cocoa butter, fat-free dry
extract of cocoa and milk (CODEX ALIMENTARIUS,
2016).
Processing of
other food
products
554.304
The Codex Alimentarius indicates that the nutritional
value of a food must be reported on the label, the
amount of energy, protein, carbohydrates, fat, specific
nutrients per 100 grams of food; the result is obtained
through bromatological tests (CODEX ALIMENTARIUS,
2009).
Manufacture of
beverages and
tobacco
products
666.559
NTE INEN 1081:1984, indicates that the quantification
of caffeine in carbonated beverages is done through the
spectrophotometric method (INEN, 2013a).
Manufacture of
textile
products,
garments;
manufacture of
leather and
leather articles
897.620
The NTE INEN-ISO 17234-1 Standard prohibits the use
of certain azo dyes that form toxic amines upon
degradation (INEN, 2014d). Therefore, in order to
protect human and environmental life, professional
chemists are required.
Manufacture of
paper and
paper products
287.445
NTE INEN-ISO 11480, indicates that the determination
of total chlorine and chlorine bound to organic
compounds in paper or cardboard, is performed
through microcoulombimetry (INEN, 2014g).
Manufacture of
chemical
substances and
products
917.120
Article 51 of the Regulations for the Control and
Administration of Scheduled Substances Subject to
Control establishes that "aqueous dilutions of acids,
bases and oxidants, in concentrations less than or equal
to 6 Normal (6N) shall be described on the labels of the
containers and shall not be controlled" (REGISTRO
OFICIAL, 2020).
Manufacture of
rubber and
plastic
products
490.121
The NTE INEN-ISO 1269 Standard indicates that volatile
matter (including water) in plastic materials, resins and
homopolymers, are determined by gravimetry (INEN,
2014f).
Manufacture of
other non-
metallic
mineral
products
231.962
NTE INEN-ISO 10545-15, indicates that the
determination of lead and cadmium emission in glazed
ceramic tiles, is performed by atomic absorption
spectrophotometry (INEN, 2014a).
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Manufacture of
base metals
and metal
products
1.238.246
The NTE INEN 2 492:2009 Standard indicates that high-
strength steel sheets are achieved through microalloys
with elements such as niobium, titanium and
molybdenum (INEN, 2009).
The NTE INEN-ISO 15096 Standard establishes that the
method for the quantification of silver in jewelry is
inductively coupled plasma optical emission
spectroscopy (INEN, 2014e).
Mining and
quarrying
133.718
The second provision of the Environmental Regulations
for mining activities establishes that "The
physicochemical, heavy metal, bacteriological and
biological laboratory analyses required to comply with
the provisions of these regulations, both in
environmental impact studies and in environmental
monitoring, control and follow-up work, shall be carried
out only by laboratories accredited by the Ecuadorian
Accreditation Body (OAE)" (REGISTRO OFICIAL, 2011).
Table 3. Role of the professional chemist in the different productive sectors of the Province of Pichincha (BCE,
2020)
8.9% of the world's population suffers from hunger (690 million people) due to human-
caused conflicts, climate change and economic downturns, for which the following has been
set as a target:
By 2030, end hunger and ensure access by all people, in particular the
poor and those in vulnerable situations, including infants, to safe,
nutritious and sufficient food all year round (ONU, 2023, para. 1).
For the development of all types of foods, especially nutritious foods, a multidisciplinary
group of professionals is required; in which chemical professionals determine the quality of
foods through the quantification of different chemical parameters established by the Codex
Alimentarius standards; in addition, chemical professionals have the knowledge to innovate
and develop functional foods (SDG 9). According to Bhattarai, food adulteration consists of
the elimination of nutrients from food, addition of hazardous substances and contamination
with microbial agents; which diminish the quality of the food, causing different diseases in
consumers. Therefore, for the development of SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) it is necessary to
develop analytical techniques to detect food hazards (Bhattarai et al., 2022).
The United Nations indicates that 13% of food is lost in harvesting, transportation, storage
and processing. Therefore, it is necessary to innovate in new technologies (SDG 9) to avoid
food waste, such as, for example, ultrasound drying that increases the shelf life of fruits and
thus can reach distant places avoiding product loss; in addition, fruit drying facilitates and
lowers transportation costs by having a lower weight compared to fresh fruit (Fernandes
and Rodrigues, 2023). Chemical professionals have high capacities to develop research in
the search for new technologies in food drying.
On the other hand, agricultural production worldwide exceeds 3 billion tons, requiring 187
million tons of fertilizers. However, more than 50% of NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus,
potassium) is lost through leaching, photodegradation, chemical hydrolysis and microbial
degradation, generating economic and environmental problems. Therefore, it is necessary
to seek new technologies (SDG 9) that favor the absorption of nutrients such as
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nanofertilizers, which have shown an increase in agricultural production of 30% compared
to conventional fertilizers (Rahman et al., 2021). For the development of this modern
agriculture such as the use of nanofertilizers, chemical professionals with the knowledge
and skills to study and manipulate matter on an atomic scale are required. Hence: "Industry
in general plays an important role in the development of the world economy. On the other
hand, it is the largest consumer of natural resources and one of the largest global polluters.
(Montes-Valencia, 2015, p.75).
ECLAC indicates that the war between Russia and Ukraine has increased the price of
fertilizers and has made it difficult to import them to Latin America and the Caribbean, since
Russia is the world's largest exporter of nitrogen fertilizers, the second largest supplier of
potassium and the third largest exporter of phosphate fertilizers (ECLAC, 2022). Therefore,
there is a need for chemical professionals with the capacity to increase regional production
and the development of new technologies such as nanofertilizers.
Considering SDG 3 (Health and well-being) the National Agency for Regulation, Control and
Sanitary Surveillance establishes as the seventh requirement for obtaining the sanitary
registration of medicines: Description of analytical methods for the quantification of active
ingredients (ARCSA, 2022); an activity that specifically requires chemical professionals with
knowledge in the validation of analytical methods to ensure the quality of pharmaceutical
products.
Similarly, chemical professionals, having knowledge of organic and inorganic molecule
synthesis, development of new bulk materials and nanotechnologies, can contribute
significantly to the research and development of innovative pharmaceutical products
(ARCSA, 2022).
3.2 Contributions of the professional chemist in the environmental sector
The "chemical professional has a relevant degree of influence for the detection and
quantification of pollutants in the various ecosystems, access to clean water and the
development of new materials to ensure affordable and non-polluting energy" (Martínez et
al., 2023, p. 21). With respect to SDG 13 (Climate Action), the current Development Plan for
the New Ecuador 2024-2025 proposes to promote circular models that contribute to the
reduction of pollution of natural and water resources (SENPLADES, 2024). The
implementation of these sustainable models would be possible with chemical professionals
who have the knowledge to transform matter, i.e., from waste, generate innovative products
for reuse. To this end, the educational approach should not be limited to the transmission
of technical knowledge on sustainability and chemistry, but should also foster critical
awareness in professionals, so that they question and transform existing structures that
perpetuate exploitation and environmental degradation.
Similarly, in order to contribute to waste reduction, chemical professionals are able to
implement projects that replace toxic and hazardous substances with environmentally
friendly substances, through the discipline known as green chemistry (Raj et al., 2022).
These professionals must have the capacity to innovate in the reuse of waste and the
creation of products that promote a circular economy, thus contributing to a structural
change in the relationship between society and nature.
The data reported in Technical Bulletin No 04-2020-Municipal ADGs, on Drinking Water
and Sanitation Management, is related to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation); in which it is
reported that 90% of municipalities have one or more water treatment systems and 83.3%
of municipalities declare compliance with INEN Standard 1108 that determines water
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quality (INEC, 2021). Therefore, to complete the deficit of municipalities without access to
water in Ecuador, there is a need for professional chemists who know the processes of
potabilization and determination of water quality, through analytical methods reported in
the aforementioned regulations.
In this sense, as shown in Table 4, the professional chemist has an important responsibility,
due to the physicochemical analysis of parameters such as ions, heavy metals, total soluble
solids, chemical oxygen demand, as parameters of drinking water quality, as well as the
detection of traditional contaminants such as heavy metals and emerging ones such as
plastics and antibiotics.
Regarding SDG 7 (Affordable and clean energy), SDG 14 (Underwater life) and SDG 15 (Life
of terrestrial ecosystems), the state of diverse and deep contamination in all ecosystems of
the planet requires emerging attention of specialized professionals, who investigate various
pollutants, generate proposals for change and positively influence public policies that seek
to mitigate global warming and the pollution and destruction of ecosystems. The chemical
professional has the necessary training and knowledge to develop specific research
projects, such as pollutant detection and generation of new materials to collaborate in the
evaluation of ecosystem pollution and generate biodegradable and non-polluting materials.
Table 4 describes several examples that relate the chemical professional to the various
Sustainable Development Goals.
Sustainable Development
Goals
Role of the professional chemist
CLEAN WATER AND
SANITATION
The NTE INEN-ISO 10304-3 Standard indicates that
the determination of anions (iodide, thiocyanate,
thiosulfate, sulfite and chromate) dissolved in water
are determined by liquid phase ion chromatography
(INEN, 2014b).
AFFORDABLE AND NON-
POLLUTING ENERGY
Biofuels are a renewable energy source that can
replace petroleum. For example, biofuel obtained
from microalgae has been used for air
transportation, showing several advantages
compared to alkanes (Jayakumar et al., 2023)
CLIMATE ACTION
Raw material production from CO_2 photocatalysis
as a reduction strategy to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions (Guo et al., 2023).)
UNDERWATER LIFE
The NTE Standard indicates that the determination
of ions (〖Li〗^+,〖Na〗^+,〖NH〗_4^+,K^+,〖Mn
〗^(2+),〖Ca〗^(2+),〖Mg〗^(2+),〖Sr〗^(2+)
and 〖Ba〗^(2+) in wastewater is determined by
ion chromatography (INEN, 2014c)
LIFE OF TERRESTRIAL
ECOSYSTEMS
The development of alternative materials to wood,
such as composites from waste such as expanded
polystyrene, rice husk, sawdust, which have better
physical-mechanical properties compared to
commercial composites (Bollakayala et al., 2023).
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Table 4. Sustainable Development Goals associated with the role of the chemical professional. Own
elaboration.
3.3 New challenges for the Ecuadorian industry in chemical processes, facing the
relevant SDGs
In this section, the results of the survey and the focus group were analyzed simultaneously,
since the findings found quantitatively in the survey of the 51 chemical professionals were
analyzed in greater depth qualitatively with the 17 participants of the focus group.
For the focus group, the participants were subdivided according to their area of expertise,
which was beneficial in facilitating understanding among the members of each group by
using a common language when communicating. However, the results did not differ, which
is why a joint analysis of the data collected was made.
In the survey conducted, the challenges of the industry regarding cleaner production in the
companies where the respondents work became evident. Where, waste recycling with
30.43% followed by efficient production methods with 19.13% are the most implemented
processes (Figure 1). Results that seem to respond to the legislation established in the
country but not necessarily to a genuine interest in seeking a greener industry, added to the
lack of knowledge on how to approach or implement a less polluting production according
to the considerations analyzed with the participants of the focus group, a fact that has been
expressed in other investigations that reflect the limitations of the Ecuadorian industry
(Anchatipán Bastidas and Flores Tapia, 2023). Therefore, the teaching of chemistry should
be directed to promote skills tending to the "study of substances and their transformations
should contribute to the formation of the scientific conception of the world by revealing
causal relationships and interdependence"(Caballero, 2017, p.5).
Figure 1. Selection of cleaner production processes applied in the surveyed companies
Note: CP, cleaner production; CP, cleaner energy.
Source: own elaboration
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In addition, as shown in Figure 2, the survey provided useful information on the level of
interest of chemical professionals and the companies they represent in addressing
problems related to the following issues:
Production: optimization, formulation, innovation, among others.
Waste management.
Quality of finished products: analysis, shelf life, among others.
Raw materials: conservation, high costs, shortages, among others.
Figure 2. Level of interest of chemical professionals and the companies they represent
Figure 2 shows that there is a high level of interest in employing corrective actions in
response to the problems presented, exceeding 40% in all the established parameters.
However, economy plays a significant role in all these procedures, as highlighted in the focus
group. This criterion goes hand in hand with 60.78 % of the respondents, highly interested
in receiving training from academia to improve industrial processes (Figure 3). When
delving deeper into the topic within the focus group, it was evident the inherent need for
training in addition to expressing the importance of a constant rapprochement between
industry and academia. Given that academia provides the fundamentals and innovation
while industry provides the funding and market knowledge, collaboration between the two
is crucial (Guachi, 2019).
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Figure 3. Degree of Interest in University Training Courses to Improve Business Production: A Respondent
Perspective
4. Conclusions
The results obtained through focus groups indicate that the implementation of cleaner
production practices in companies is insufficient. Most of the participants mentioned that
they have focused mainly on efforts related to waste recycling. Regarding collaborations
with academic institutions, interviewees noted that interaction with academia is limited in
terms of addressing and solving the challenges associated with waste generation in various
industrial processes. Therefore, the educational model should be oriented to the early
interaction of the student with its sphere of potential performance, in order to achieve a
solvent training and development of knowledge and skills, this is feasible through the
development of a system of relevant and contextualized pre-professional practices.
In this scenario, the representatives of the companies interviewed expressed a clear interest
in establishing closer links with academic institutions. They seek access to knowledge
updates, continuous training and advice on processes that are aligned with the
competencies that a chemical professional can provide. Regarding the literature review on
the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the relevant regulatory frameworks for the
creation of a professional chemist profile in line with the current context, several key
elements were identified. The SDGs, as an international framework, the Constitution of the
Republic of Ecuador, Development Plan for the New Ecuador 2024-2025 and the
Development and Territorial Planning Plan 2019-2023 of the Prefecture of Pichincha,
establish the political and normative bases that serve as a starting point for the
development of a relevant curriculum for chemical professionals.
In particular, the bibliographic analysis revealed that the opportunities and relevance of
chemical professionals are linked to national and international regulations that companies
and industries in the country's productive sector must comply with. These regulations
include standards such as the INEN regulations and the Codex Alimentarius. Chemical
professionals can play a crucial role in the development of technical solutions, as well as in
the creation of experimental bases for innovation and development.
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These professional competencies, together with their theoretical and technical knowledge,
translate into the ability to develop relevant learning content in the current context. In
addition, these regulations have been directly linked to the productive sectors of greatest
economic influence in the country, such as the manufacture of metals and derived products,
the production of chemical substances, the manufacture of textile and leather products, and
the elaboration of milling, bakery and noodle products. Therefore, it is essential to take
these sectors into account when designing the curriculum for chemical professionals and to
promote their positive influence in these economic areas.
The environmental field is currently a highly relevant field of influence for chemical
professionals. In a context of widespread pollution of ecosystems and global warming, the
participation of chemical professionals offers the opportunity to identify and characterize
pollutants of organic and inorganic nature. In addition, they can contribute to innovation in
biodegradable materials that help mitigate pollution and contamination problems, as well
as generate solutions to counteract climate change.
The pertinent and adequate training of a chemical professional implies the adoption of an
educational posture that allows their training in the ethical, scientific, research and society
linking fields requires a comprehensive approach that consolidates knowledge, skills and
values. It is essential to provide a solid foundation in the chemical sciences, ensuring that
students understand the fundamental principles and advanced applications of chemistry.
This is achieved through a rigorous curriculum that includes the development of
experimental laboratory practices, research projects and the integration of emerging
technologies. However, professional education must be accompanied by ethics education
that addresses the social and environmental implications of chemical practice. This implies
the inclusion of professional ethics courses, where real cases are discussed and the impact
of chemical decisions on society and the environment is reflected upon. In addition, it is
crucial to foster critical thinking that allows future professionals to question established
practices and seek innovative and sustainable solutions. In this way, education not only
trains a competent technician, but also a committed citizen, capable of contributing ethically
and with critical thinking to the positive transformation of society and the care of the planet.
The interlearning theories adopted for the formation of the chemical professional should
guide the practice of participatory and collaborative methodologies with the support of
information and communication technologies and, based on the development of problem-
based learning, inverted classroom, augmented reality and interdisciplinary projects that
link chemistry with various areas of knowledge.
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Authors
DENNYS ALMACHI-VILLALBA obtained his Master's degree in Food Science from the
Faculty of Chemical Sciences of the Central University of Ecuador in 2022; at the same
educational institution he obtained his degree in Chemistry in 2018.
He is currently a professor of mathematics of the leveling course of the Faculty of Chemical
Sciences of the Central University of Ecuador. He works as a technician in the Physical
Chemistry and Nanostructures laboratories of the Faculty of Chemical Sciences of the
Central University of Ecuador. His main research topics focus on the use of natural products
for the innovation and development of industrial products; he has also developed
nanotechnological applications in the food industry.
MISHELL YÉPEZ-PADILLA obtained her Master's degree in Food Science from the Graduate
Institute of the Faculty of Chemical Sciences of the Universidad Central del Ecuador
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(Ecuador) in 2023. She obtained her degree in Chemistry from Universidad Central del
Ecuador in 2019. He obtained a diploma in Technological Tools for Teaching Innovation and
Digital Competences at the Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja in 2022. He is currently
a technician in the Environmental and Agricultural Chemistry laboratory and teacher of the
leveling course at the Faculty of Chemical Sciences of the Universidad Central del Ecuador.
His main research topics focus on the study of nano and micro particles for the development
of natural colorants and their competitive replacement in food. In recent years, she has
focused on the study of academic performance, curricular elements and online modality (e-
learning).
ELITHSINE ESPINEL-ARMAS obtained her Master's degree in Higher Education from the
Faculty of Philosophy, Letters and Education Sciences (2003), obtained her degree as
Specialist in Educational Processes Management from the Faculty of Philosophy, Letters and
Education Sciences of the Universidad Central del Ecuador (2003). She obtained her
Bachelor's degree in Education Sciences, specializing in Commerce and Administration in
1995, from the Universidad Central del Ecuador.
She is currently a full professor at the Faculty of Chemical Sciences of the Universidad
Central, at undergraduate and graduate levels. She is a member of the Reviewers Committee
of the Revista Química Central of the Faculty of Chemical Sciences, of the Revista La Granja
of the Universidad Salesiana, of the Revista Actualidades Investigativas en Educación of the
Universidad de Costa Rica, of the Revista Tsafiqui of the Universidad Tecnológica
Equinoccial, of the Revista Amawtakuna of the Universidad Intercultural de las
Nacionalidades y Pueblos Indígenas Amawtay Wasi. She is the author of several books and
articles published in indexed journals. In addition, she has participated in the presentation
of several posters and papers in International Congresses, which have been published in
books. She has acted as director of undergraduate and graduate degree works. Her topics of
interest are linked to the field of education, pedagogy, curriculum design and organization,
educational modalities and learning, research methodology, administration, nootropic
activity.
CHRISTIAN ALCÍVAR-LEÓN- Pharmaceutical Chemist, Universidad Central del Ecuador
(2011). Doctor of the Faculty of Exact Sciences, Area: Chemistry. National University of La
Plata, Argentina (2016). He developed postgraduate studies in the synthesis and obtaining
of new substituted haloalkyl substituted benzopyrans. He has published several articles in
indexed journals such as Monatshefte fuer Chemie, Molecular Physics, New Journal of
Chemistry, Spectrochimica Acta Part A Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy. Index H:
5, ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6987-3107. Also, some works in the area of
postharvest technologies in the Revista Iberoamericana de Tecnología Poscosecha. He
developed his doctoral studies with a scholarship granted by SENESCYT - Ecuador and a
scholarship for completion of doctoral studies by Conicet - Argentina. She received a
training grant from EDUNABIO (Educational Network of Agrobiodiversity - Germany), for a
research stay under the direction of Prof. Dr. Dr. Dr. h.c. mult. Peter Langer at the University
of Rostock, Department of Organic Chemistry. She worked in the Research Group on
Postharvest Quality and Technology (ICATEP) of the Food Research Center (CIAL) of the
UTE University and is a member of the Iberoamerican Research Network VALORAL
(University of Seville, Spain).
She is currently working in the research group on Nanostructures and New Materials at the
Universidad Central del Ecuador, Faculty of Chemical Sciences, directed by Dr. Pablo Bonilla.
His current work focuses on the synthesis and production of new halogenated heterocycles,
59
Licencia Creative Commons Atribución 4.0 Internacional (CC BY 4.0)
Revista Cátedra, 7(2), pp. 40-59, July-December 2024. e-ISSN: 2631-2875
https://doi.org/10.29166/catedra.v7i2.6185
and on the functionalization of natural polymers through chemical reactions to obtain new
biodegradable biomaterials that can be used as packaging materials for fruits and
vegetables.
Statement of Authorship-CRediT
DENNYS ALMACHI-VILLALBA: Conceptualization, data curation, formal analysis, research,
methodology, project management, resources, supervision, validation, visualization-
preparation, writing - original draft, writing-revising and editing.
MYRIAN YÉPEZ-PADILLA: Conceptualization, data curation, formal analysis, research,
resources, software, visualization-preparation, writing-original draft, writing-revising and
editing.
ELITHSINE ESPINEL-ARMAS: Conceptualization, methodology, supervision (external
mentoring to the core team), visualization, writing - original draft, writing-revising and
editing, conclusion, final writing and editing.
CHRISTIAN ALCÍVAR-LEÓN: Conceptualization, research.