Bridging Sustainability and Chemistry Education: A Systematic Review of Problem-Based Learning in Green Chemistry for Enhancing Scientific Literacy
Abstract
This study aims to identify models for developing teaching materials based on problem-based learning (PBL) in the context of green chemistry and to document the skills reported to have improved in these studies. In addition, this review examines how integrating PBL and green chemistry strengthens science culture, an area where research gaps persist, as previous results have not been systematically summarized. The method used in this study is a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) by following the PRISMA guidelines. Data are obtained from various scientific databases, including Scopus, SINTA, Web of Science (WoS), DOAJ, and Google Scholar, covering publications from 2022 to 2025. A total of 20 peer-reviewed articles that met the criteria were analyzed using a descriptive and bibliometric approach in VOSviewer. The results of the study show that most research reports an improvement in conceptual understanding, critical thinking skills, and environmental awareness when PBL is applied in the context of green chemistry. This approach helps students become aware of environmental issues through relevant problem-solving, such as energy efficiency and the use of environmentally friendly chemicals. The bibliometric analysis highlights five key themes: PBL, green chemistry, scientific literacy, local knowledge, and digital learning, pointing to a growing trend of integrating environmental, cultural, and technological perspectives in research. The thematic synthesis indicates that…
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Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid.
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