Brazil's 22nd National Science and Technology Week Spotlights Youth Innovation and Environmental Sustainability
The 22nd National Science and Technology Week in Brazil demonstrated youth-led scientific innovation and environmental sustainability through projects, cultural events, and educational initiatives under the theme 'Planet Water.'
- • The 22nd SNCT centered on 'Planet Water: Oceanic Culture to Face Climate Change.'
- • Encontro de Clubes de Ciências highlighted youth protagonism and featured the internationally recognized CEM 111 science club.
- • Projects showcased include biodegradable plastics by Cetene and the natural solvent Desin Craca by Sesi Alagoas students.
- • University of Southern Santa Catarina hosted extensive research activities focused on water preservation and climate change.
- • Cultural programs and documentary launches integrated science with Brazilian oceanic culture.
Key details
The 22nd National Week of Science and Technology (SNCT), held from October 21 to 26, 2025, across Brazil, showcased the nation’s commitment to scientific education, youth protagonism, and environmental sustainability under the unifying theme 'Planet Water: Oceanic Culture to Face Climate Change in My Territory'. The event fostered a rich blend of science, culture, and community engagement, drawing diverse participants including students, educators, researchers, and local communities.
Central to the SNCT was the Encontro de Clubes de Ciências, which brought together students and teachers from science clubs nationwide. Highlighted by Carlos Wagner of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MCTI), these clubs play a vital role in cultivating critical thinking and creativity, especially encouraging female participation in science. Micaelly Mesquita, a former member of the acclaimed CEM 111 science club from Recanto das Emas, shared her transformative journey from club member to Civil Engineering student, embodying the educational impact of these initiatives. The CEM 111 club gained international recognition as a finalist for the Zayed Sustainability Prize 2025, with projects focused on agroforestry, rainwater harvesting, and community engagement.
Innovative projects were prominently featured at the SNCT's various exhibitions, including sustainable solutions developed by the Strategic Technologies Center of the Northeast (Cetene) and students from Sesi Alagoas. Cetene is pioneering biodegradable plastics from bacterial biopolymers and implementing mangrove restoration efforts while monitoring microplastic contamination. Sesi Alagoas students created 'Desin Craca,' a natural solvent that safely removes barnacles from artisanal fishing boats, enhancing environmental protection and supporting local fishermen’s livelihoods.
Universities like the University of Southern Santa Catarina (Unesc) contributed significantly with over 700 research projects and activities emphasizing water preservation and climate change’s impact on aquatic ecosystems. Unesc’s campus events engaged nearly 2,800 participants, reinforcing the interdisciplinary approach to sustainability and innovation.
The SNCT also integrated culture and science to enhance public appreciation, featuring theater, exhibitions, and the launch of the documentary series 'Euceano,' supported by UNESCO, which explores humanity’s connection with oceans. Children’s programming included a show by Turma da Mônica, further expanding outreach.
Representatives such as Minister of Racial Equality Anielle Franco visited key exhibits, including those of Maranhão’s Estação Conhecimento de Arari, which presented projects in creative technologies focused on automation, sustainability, and material reuse. The director, Pedro Verde, highlighted the institution’s dedication to advancing integral education and gaining national recognition.
Overall, the SNCT 2025 underscored Brazil’s dedication to promoting scientific literacy, especially among youth, and integrating environmental stewardship with cultural heritage to face the challenges of climate change.