Environmental Consciousness Research Articles

Role of Individual Environmental Consciousness in Industrial Decarbonization Transition

Role of Individual Environmental Consciousness in Industrial Decarbonization Transition

Capitalized Pollution and Inhabitability Critique in Kazuo Ishiguro’s Klara and the Sun

ABSTRACT This article delves into the environmental consciousness and criticism present in Kazuo Ishiguro’s eighth novel Klara and the Sun. Ishiguro depicts AI robots reliant on solar energy, with smoke being a significant obstacle for both these robots and humans to obtain sufficient sunlight for survival. This allegorical metaphor is revealed through the perspective of the naïve narrator, Klara, who notes that the source of smoke is the capitalized Pollution emitted from the Cootings Machine, a prototype of steam engine. By associating the novel with British environmental history, this article investigates Ishiguro’s representation and reflection of pollution, employing modernity theories on the environment by Ulrich Beck, Anthony Giddens, Bruno Latour, and Timothy Morton. I argue that the novel not only inherits the British literary tradition of smoke representation since the era of Romanticism, but also imbues this literary motif with new meanings in posthuman society. By doing so, Ishiguro critiques the human behaviors that have challenged the well-being of both planet Earth and all its inhabitants, and urges immediate action to prevent an ultimate uninhabitability of this planet.

Do pilot zones for green finance reform and innovation avoid ESG greenwashing? Evidence from China

As ESG investments have grown, many companies are emphasizing them to impress capital markets and consumers with their responsibility and environmental consciousness. However, managers in unethical companies greenwashing ESG reports to keep clients. The present investigation employs quasi-natural experiment data obtained from a sample of 1200 Chinese A-share listed companies spanning the period from 2011 to 2021 to examine how the Green Finance Reform and Innovation Pilot Zone (GFRIPZ) affects ESG greenwashing. GFRIPZ can prevent publicly traded companies from ESG greenwashing. The statistical analysis of heterogeneity demonstrates that GFRIPZ in non-state-owned, mid-west, heavy-polluting, manufacturing industries reduces ESG greenwashing. GFRIPZ suppresses corporate ESG greenwashing better in companies with severe financial constraints and a poor corporate reputation. GFRIPZ's inhibition of corporate ESG greenwashing is enhanced by internal and external monitoring. This study shows how financial markets affect firms' ESG greenwashing. It helps implement GFRIPZ theoretically. It also recommends raising listed companies' awareness of ESG disclosure and reducing corporate ESG greenwashing.

Characterization of Calotropis gigantiea plant leaves biomass-based bioplasticizers for biofilm applications

The present surge in environmental consciousness has pushed for the use of biodegradable plasticizers, which are sustainable and abundant in plant resources. As a result of their biocompatibility and biodegradability, Calotropis gigantiea leaf plasticizers (CLP) serve as viable alternatives to chemical plasticizers. First time, the natural plasticizers from the Calotropis leaves were extracted for this study using a suitable chemical approach that was also environmentally friendly. The XRD results showed a reduced crystallinity index of 20.2 % and a crystalline size of 5.3 nm, respectively. TGA study revealed that the CLP has good thermal stability (244 °C). Through FT-IR study, the existence of organic compounds in CLP can be investigated by key functional groups such as alcohol, amine, amide, hydrocarbon, alkene, aromatic, etc. Further the presence of alcoholic, amino, and carboxyl constituents was confirmed by UV investigation. SEM, EDAX analysis, and AFM are used to examine the surface morphology of the isolated plasticizer. SEM pictures reveal rough surfaces on the CLP surface pores, which makes them suitable for plasticizing new bioplastics with improved mechanical properties. Poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), a biodegradable polymer matrix, was used to investigate the plasticization impact after the macromolecules were characterised. The biofilm PBAT/CLP had a thickness of 0.8 mm. In addition, the reinforcement interface was examined using scanning electron microscopy. When CLP is loaded differently in PBAT, the tensile strength and young modulus change from 15.30 to 24.60 MPa and from 137 to 168 MPa, respectively. CLP-reinforced films demonstrated better surface compatibility and enhanced flexibility at a loading of 2 % when compared to pure PBAT films. Considering several documented characteristics, CLP may prove to be an excellent plasticizer for resolving environmental issues in the future.

Environmental Consciousness in the Digital Era of Online Shopping: A Systematic and Bibliometric Review

Environmental Consciousness in the Digital Era of Online Shopping: A Systematic and Bibliometric Review

An anti-extreme-environment self-healing vanillin-based icephobic coating with UV-shielding performance and recyclability

Outdoor icephobic coatings are prone to damage, particularly in extreme weather conditions like freezing temperatures and acid rain. Damage to the coating will result in a loss of icephobic function and may lead to increased icing. Furthermore, it is imperative to incorporate sustainability into icephobic coatings as environmental consciousness grows. Herein, a vanillin-based icephobic coating with anti-extreme-environment self-healing was prepared by incorporating vanillin-based polyols into prepolymers terminated with isocyanates that include silicone oil. The coating exhibited low ice adhesion with a measurement of 8.8 kPa, which was mainly attributed to the hydrophobicity of PDMS and the hydrophobic and lubricating characteristics of silicone oil. Moreover, the coating's remarkable chemical stability and ability to resist fouling were due to its lubricating and hydrophobic properties. More importantly, the coating retains impressive self-healing abilities in extreme conditions (−20 °C, pH = 1, pH = 14) due to the multiple dynamic bonds within the coating and the water-repelling and plasticizing effects of silicone oil. The coating maintained its original hydrophobic characteristics and low ice adhesion strength even after several recycling and self-healing cycles, demonstrating remarkable lifespan and sustainability. This work facilitates meeting the need for anti-icing in outdoor areas, particularly in extremely cold, acidic, and alkaline conditions.

Review on the application of renewable energy in green chemistry

Green chemistry, often referred to as environmentally friendly chemistry, or clean chemistry, aims to minimize or eliminate the utilization of harmful compounds and promote the development of chemicals and process designs that are environmentally sustainable. Renewable energy is a significant area of study within the realm of green chemistry. Given the phenomenon of global warming and the growing energy requirements, there is an increasingly pressing need for environmental consciousness and the promotion of sustainable development. This study will explore the application of renewable energy in green chemistry, along with the associated technologies for production and utilization. To effectively address the requirements of sustainable human development, it is crucial to prioritize the rational utilization of resources, maintain ecological equilibrium, and ensure environmental preservation. This will enable the achievement of a harmonious and coordinated relationship between mankind and the natural world.

Shared Mobility and India’s Generation Z: Environmental Consciousness, Risks, and Attitudes

Shared Mobility and India’s Generation Z: Environmental Consciousness, Risks, and Attitudes

THE AESTHETICS OF SUSTAINABILITY: INCORPORATING PLASTIC RECYCLING INTO ART AND DESIGN EDUCATION

This study investigates the integration of environmental conservation principles in university craft and artistry design courses, focusing on the use of recycled plastic bottles. It examines how this innovative approach effectively incorporates environmental concepts into art education, enhancing student creativity and environmental awareness. Through observational methods, the study explores student behaviours in material selection, design processes, and the application of recycled materials, revealing a preference for using beverage plastic bottles for their accessibility and malleability. The study also highlights the role of art in promoting environmental consciousness. It suggests that such practices not only enhance technical and creative skills but also foster environmental responsibility among future designers. This research underscores the necessity of multidisciplinary approaches in art and design education, advocating for experiential learning methods and the use of digital platforms for resource sharing and creative expression. The study contributes to the discourse on sustainable design education, emphasizing the importance of nurturing environmentally responsible designers to address global environmental challenges.

Embracing Sustainability in Green Supplier Evaluation: A Novel Integrated Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Framework

Nowadays, industrial production is a critical issue for companies as public consciousness is rising because of environmental impacts. Like most other industries, the ready-made garment (RMG) industry faces immense pressure to be more competitive in this increasingly competitive market and proactively reduce waste and ecological footprint impacts. Besides, suppliers’ environmental performance and image have far more effect on a corporation’s environmental sustainability than the corporation’s internal environmental efforts. Moreover, there is a shortage of environmental consciousness in emerging economies; thus, green supply chain practices are lagging. Therefore, the green supplier evaluation criteria should be identified and focused on during sustainable procurement. This study analyses quantitative and qualitative factors and explores the relationship between green supplier preference principles using the combination of the Fuzzy Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method and the Fuzzy Technique for Order Performance by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). Initially, the supplier’s green performance was measured by identifying the criteria from relevant literature. After that, the Fuzzy DEMATEL technique measures the related criteria weights, and the Fuzzy TOPSIS method utilizes these criteria weights to rank suppliers among alternative suppliers. The findings will guide policymakers to improve supplier quality, increase profitability through improved brand recognition, and attract consumers who prioritize environmentally friendly products.

A Comprehensive Study on the Production and Characterization of Eco-Friendly Biodegradable Plastic Films from Dent Corn Starch

The increasing demand for eco-conscious and sustainable biomaterials has propelled the exploration of alternatives to petroleum-derived materials. This study delves into the utilization of dent corn (Zea mays L.) starch as a renewable resource for crafting biodegradable packaging solutions. The physicochemical properties of dent corn starch were meticulously assessed through a series of preparation steps, encompassing washing, cutting, grinding, drying, and pulverizing. Despite the inherent variability in dent corn sourced from local markets, the resulting starch exhibited commendable characteristics, including a pH of 7.02, moisture content of 6.50%, ash content of 0.20%, bulk density of 0.47 g/ml, gelatinization temperature of 61.2 ˚C, protein content of 2%, and a yield of 64%. Subsequently, employing the casting method, bioplastic films were synthesized using starch powder, water, and glycerol as a plasticizer. A comprehensive evaluation of the chemical, mechanical, solubility, and biodegradability properties of the films ensued. Remarkably, the films demonstrated notable values for tensile strength (2.58 MPa), elongation at break (24%), and film thickness (1.4 mm), alongside exhibiting low absorption rates in various media and remaining insoluble in solvents, even at elevated temperatures. Notably, the influence of glycerol content on the tensile strength and biodegradability of the films was elucidated through a least squares model, underscoring its pivotal role. These findings highlights the potential of dent corn starch as a viable alternative for the development of biodegradable packaging materials, despite the variability inherent in its sourcing from local markets. The study significantly contributes to ongoing endeavors aimed at fostering sustainability and reducing reliance on petroleum-derived materials, aligning with the escalating environmental consciousness.

Contextualizing climate change education: taking nature seriously

ABSTRACT This paper argues that a proper response to the onset of potentially catastrophic human-induced climate change requires an understanding that is both broader and deeper than that which frequently informs current policies and that focusses on technological solutions and some behaviour modification. Such a technologically orientated response is seen as standing in danger of reinforcing what are argued to be the key underlying causes of anthropogenic climate change: immoderate anthropocentrism and conceiving nature essentially as purely a resource. A view of nature that seeks to characterize and respect nature’s intrinsic moral standing that is based on recognizing its inherent integrity, normativity and intrinsic value is developed. The genuinely receptive-responsive relationship with nature that emerges is argued to lie at the heart of the kind of environmental consciousness that can properly address climate change issues and that therefore constitutes a central concern of climate change education.

THE ECOLOGICAL CONSCIOUSNESS MATRIX IN THE CONTEXT OF RUSSIAN SOCIETY RESOURCE SUSTAINABILITY: INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACH

The article examines the problem of resource sustainability of the Russian society in conditions of accele-rating rate of technic evolution and anthropogenic pressure on the natural world of the Earth. In this regard, the authors analyze the prerequisites for the environmental consciousness formation as a signifi cant structure of social self-organization related with the factors of ontological security, trust and human responsibility for the biosphere preservation. Research is carried out within the framework of an ecosystem approach, which emphasizes that’s the combination of biosphere and social resources ensuring the sustainable development of the global world. Setting of social psychology to activate the norm is used in the analysis of the motivation factors of pro-ecological behavior. The empirical basis is the statistical material of sociological surveys conducted by the Russian Public Opinion Re-search Center. At present, ecological consciousness resource is associated with a set of beliefs and values that guide person’s perception of the natural environment within the human life world as a self-suffi cient system interacting with the structures from technological and social spheres. There are various models of person’s behavior motivated by a combination of social norms and personal attitudes that form the semantic matrix of personal environmental consciousness. On the other hand, citizens’ concern for the environment state is identifi ed as a leading factor in motivating pro-environmental behavior. Presented statistical data from VCIOM surveys show the level of public awareness about the global signifi cance of the life safety factor in their region and public involvement in changing the situation. In conclusion, the authors emphasize that the formation of contextual structures of consciousness based on ecosystem settings gives rise to new stereotypes of worldview, thought and behavior. Therefore, this type of consciousness represents a signifi cant resource for the sustainable development of Russian society in condition of technogenic civilization

Exploring influences of environmental information, beliefs and self-efficacy on nurses' climate health behaviours and their relationships.

To create a healthy nursing environment and protect human health in response to climate change, it is essential to encourage behaviour change among nurses. Although numerous studies have been conducted on nurses to address climate change, few studies have explored the relationships of factors that influence and promote nurses' climate health behavioural behavioural change, making it difficult to determine how nurses should act and prioritise regarding climate health behaviours. To investigate influential environmental factors on climate health behaviours among nurses through the causal relationships between environmental information, environmental beliefs and environmental self-efficacy using the Information-Motivation-Behavioural Skills (IMB) model. A cross-sectional study. This study recruited 186 nurses working in hospitals nationwide in July 2023. Self-reported questionnaires (Climate, Health, and Nursing Tool; National Environmental Consciousness Survey; New Ecological Paradigm Scale; Personal Efficacy Scale) were used to collect the data. Path analysis was performed. The factors influencing nurses' climate health behaviours were environmental information, environmental beliefs and environmental self-efficacy. Environmental self-efficacy was found to be more influenced by the exogenous variables of environmental information than environmental beliefs and to be the most significant factor affecting climate health behaviours. It is more important for nurses to obtain environmental information than environmental beliefs to achieve the goal of climate health behaviours. This in turn, will lead to personal self-efficacy that nurses can mitigate the climate crisis. Their strong self-efficacy affects their climate health behaviours. Nurses should seek and draw on the appropriate environmental information related to climate health change and nurses with environmental self-efficacy become environmental nursing leaders, encouraging other health care workers to participate actively in climate health behaviours and continuously carry out the behaviours within daily life, hospital and community environments. The study addressed the lack of relationship research on factors influencing nurses' climate health behaviours, emphasizing the importance of accessing environmental information to foster self-efficacy. Nurses with heightened self-efficacy can lead healthcare professionals in climate health actions. This research has adhered to relevant EQUATOR and STROBE. No Patient or Public Contribution.

The Impact of Environmental Consciousness on Consumer Choices of Sasirangan: A Review and Research Gap Analysis

This literature study explores the intricate relationship between environmental consciousness and consumer choices, focusing on the traditional tie-dye fabric known as Sasirangan in South Borneo, Indonesia. A Google Scholar search yielded 189 papers. A literature review of 39 papers published between 2016 and 2023 was carried out to focus the investigation. The review involved formulating research objectives, identifying relevant studies, extracting and assessing data for bias, synthesizing data, and summarizing and interpreting findings. The paper delves into the evolving dynamics of consumer preferences, shedding light on the influence of environmental awareness in shaping decisions related to the consumption of cultural and traditional artifacts. By examining the case of Sasirangan, a centuries-old craft deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of South Borneo, we seek to understand how environmental considerations impact the market for this traditional tie-dye fabric. Keywords: Environmental awareness, environmental consciousness, consumer, Sasirangan, South Borneo

Consumer Perception Towards Green Products

This qualitative research investigation delves into the intricate landscape of consumer perception and adoption of green products, aiming to unveil the underlying factors that shape consumer behaviour in the realm of sustainability. With growing environmental concerns and an increasing emphasis on eco conscious consumption, understanding how consumers perceive and engage with green products is paramount for businesses and policymakers alike. Through in depth interviews and thematic analysis, this study uncovers the multifaceted dimensions influencing consumer decisions regarding green product adoption. Themes such a s environmental consciousness, perceived value, trust in green claims, and barriers to adoption emerge as central aspects shaping consumer attitudes and behaviours. Moreover, the study illuminates the nuanced interplay between individual beliefs, social influences, and contextual factors in driving consumer preferences for green products. Insights gleaned from this research provide valuable implications for marketers, policymakers, and sustainability advocates seeking to foster greater acceptance and uptake of environmentally friendly products within the marketplace.

INSTILLING ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS AND NATURALISTIC INTELLIGENCE IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION: A CASE STUDY OF A KINDERGARTEN IN INDONESIA

Children should be exposed to character education at an early age. Naturalistic intelligence and environmental consciousness should be introduced and instilled early on. The 2013 Curriculum includes this love of nature as one of the components of religious and moral growth. In spiritual and ethical development, we learn about the value and respect for God’s creations as well as appropriate behavior toward other living beings, including plants and animals. The loving-nature mindset is integrated into the learning objectives of religious values and character in the Independent Curriculum (Kurikulum Merdeka). This study aims to describe the forms of nature-loving education in a kindergarten in Indonesia and the types of activities that children can engage in. This research employs a qualitative methodology with a case study approach. The population of this study consists of all 18 children in Kindergarten B. Data collection was conducted using observation and checklist assessment techniques, and data analysis followed the Miles and Huberman technique. The results indicate that children are more enthusiastic about visiting animal enclosures directly and creating crafts from recycled materials as part of fostering naturalistic intelligence and a love for nature.

Isolation and Characterization of Spherical Cellulose Nanocrystals Extracted from the Higher Cellulose Yield of the Jenfokie Plant: Morphological, Structural, and Thermal Properties.

Scholars are looking for solutions to substitute hazardous substances in manufacturing nanocellulose from bio-sources to preserve the world's growing environmental consciousness. During the past decade, there has been a notable increase in the use of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) in modern science and nanotechnology advancements because of their abundance, biocompatibility, biodegradability, renewability, and superior mechanical properties. Spherical cellulose nanocrystals (J-CNCs) were successfully synthesized from Jenfokie micro-cellulose (J-MC) via sulfuric acid hydrolysis in this study. The yield (up to 58.6%) and specific surface area (up to 99.64 m2/g) of J-CNCs were measured. A field emission gun-scanning electron microscope (FEG-SEM) was used to assess the morphology of the J-MC and J-CNC samples. The spherical shape nanoparticles with a mean nano-size of 34 nm for J-CNCs were characterized using a transmission electron microscope (TEM). X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used to determine the crystallinity index and crystallinity size of J-CNCs, up to 98.4% and 6.13 nm, respectively. The chemical composition was determined using a Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscope. Thermal characterization of thermogravimetry analysis (TGA), derivative thermogravimetry (DTG), and differential thermal analysis (DTA) was conducted to identify the thermal stability and cellulose pyrolysis behavior of both J-MC and J-CNC samples. The thermal analysis of J-CNC indicated lower thermal stability than J-MC. It was noted that J-CNC showed higher levels of crystallinity and larger crystallite sizes than J-MC, indicating a successful digestion and an improvement of the main crystalline structure of cellulose. The X-ray diffraction spectra and TEM images were utilized to establish that the nanocrystals' size was suitable. The novelty of this work is the synthesis of spherical nanocellulose with better properties, chosen with a rich source of cellulose from an affordable new plant (studied for the first time) by stepwise water-retted extraction, continuing from our previous study.

GREEN SCHOOLS: A BRIEF REVIEW

Green schools represent an innovative educational model that seamlessly integrates environmental stewardship principles with teaching methods to create enriching learning environments. In addition to focusing on conserving resources, they prioritize student well-being and instill a deep environmental consciousness, shaping a generation dedicated to sustainability. This article explores the significance, objectives and advantages of green schools, emphasizing their critical role in fostering a sustainable future through comprehensive education and increased environmental awareness. The research specifically underscores the economic and environmental significance of green schools, highlighting their capacity to lower operational costs while simultaneously reducing environmental impact and promoting a more sustainable planet for future generations.

Environmental Consciousness of High School Teachers and Their Opinion about the Importance of Environmental Education for Sustainability: Differences on Sociodemographic Factors

Environmental Consciousness of High School Teachers and Their Opinion about the Importance of Environmental Education for Sustainability: Differences on Sociodemographic Factors