Sustainable utilization of by-products: Integrating innovation and environmental awareness in technology teacher education

This study examined the awareness, extent of practice, and challenges related to the sustainable utilization of by-products among teachers and students in Technology Teacher Education at Cebu Technological University–Main Campus. A descriptive–correlational research design was employed involving 184 respondents, consisting of 24 teachers and 160 students from programs related to Technology and Livelihood Education. Data were collected using an adapted questionnaire measuring sustainability awareness, extent of practice, and challenges in implementing sustainability-based projects. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, weighted mean, and Pearson correlation were used for analysis. Findings revealed that teachers demonstrated a high level of awareness regarding sustainable utilization of by-products, while students exhibited moderate to high awareness influenced by academic year level and participation in sustainability-related seminars. Both groups reported frequently practicing basic sustainability activities such as waste segregation and repurposing of materials. However, participation in innovation-oriented sustainability projects remained limited. Major challenges identified included insufficient materials, limited tools and facilities, and lack of training opportunities related to sustainability integration. Correlation analysis revealed no significant relationship between teachers’ profile variables and their awareness and practices. Among students, weak but significant relationships were observed between year level, seminar participation, and sustainability awareness. Based on these findings, a Sustainability and Innovation Compendium was developed to enhance the integration of by-product utilization and sustainability concepts in Technology Teacher Education.