The Influence of Environmental Education on College Students' behavioural Attitudes towards Sustainability

Abstract

Environmental education (EE) serves as a cornerstone for fostering sustainable development by equipping individuals with the knowledge, values, and skills required to address pressing environmental challenges. This paper investigates the role of EE in influencing college students' attitudes and behaviors towards sustainability. It examines the extent to which EE programs contribute to increased awareness, positive attitudinal shifts, and behavioral changes aimed at adopting sustainable practices. The study employs a mixed-method approach, utilizing quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to provide a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon.Findings reveal that students exposed to EE programs exhibit significantly higher levels of environmental awareness, a deeper commitment to sustainability, and greater participation in eco-friendly activities compared to their peers without such exposure. Key behavioral changes include increased recycling, energy conservation, use of public transportation, and reduction of plastic waste. These shifts underscore the potential of EE not only as an academic tool but also as a catalyst for societal transformation.The results highlight the importance of integrating EE into higher education curricula and suggest that a multi-pronged approach—encompassing formal coursework, extracurricular activities, and institutional support—yields the most significant impact. Policymakers are urged to prioritize EE as a strategic investment in creating a generation of environmentally conscious citizens capable of tackling global environmental challenges.