Environmental Education Research Articles

New Reforms in Indian Higher Education: Rethinking the Education Model

The National Education Policy (NEP)-2020 will bring flexibility to the curriculum through a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary approach, a new assessment process, resource empowerment, multiple exit options, and encouraging internationalization. Adopting an open curriculum with transdisciplinary course patterns, including flexibility in electives, has led to progress in skill development, holistic development, community engagement, technological integration, environmental education, and value-based education. Ranking and accreditation will have a significant impact on the quality of education and research. It is necessary to frame an education policy that will give better results in creativity, development of critical thinking, decision-making skills, and problem-solving abilities. The new reforms aim to enhance the quality and effectiveness of future-ready higher education institutions in India. In this paper, an attempt has been made to present various reforms in the Indian higher education system, its regulatory structure, and teaching pedagogy.

Integration of Dalihan Natolu's Local Wisdom in the Sets Learning Model to Improve Student's Problem Solving Ability

This study integrates the Science, Environment, Technology, and Society (SETS) learning model with the cultural framework of Dalihan Natolu (DNT), aimed at fostering active, effective, and creative learning. The objective was to examine the impact of this integrated DNT-SETS approach on students’ problem-solving skills, particularly in the context of environmental pollution. A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving 60 students from SMA GKPS Pematang Raya, divided into an experimental group (30 students) and a control group (30 students). The learning materials included lesson plans, student worksheets, learning model guides, and six essay questions related to environmental pollution, designed to assess problem-solving skills. Data were analyzed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test for normality and Levene's test for variance homogeneity, both at a 5% significance level. A t-test was conducted to determine the effectiveness of the DNT-SETS model. The t-test results showed a significance value of 0.000, indicating a statistically significant difference between the experimental and control groups. The experimental group, which used the DNT-SETS model, demonstrated a 59% improvement in problem-solving skills, compared to a 38% gain in the control group. This suggests the DNT-SETS model effectively enhanced students' abilities to address environmental issues. The integration of the DNT-SETS model enabled students to approach environmental problems holistically, linking scientific concepts with real-world challenges. This model encourages students to gather evidence and develop effective solutions based on their understanding. The DNT-SETS model significantly improves problem-solving skills in environmental education, offering a practical and culturally relevant teaching strategy.

Digital Escape Rooms: A Resource for Environmental Education

Today’s adolescents represent an elective target in addressing environmental challenges. Education is a key factor in achieving a sustainable future for them. However, formal education can represent a challenge when youths are its target, as they are considered the “interactive generation”. Game-based learning, and, in particular, Digital Educational Escape Rooms (DERs), have emerged as innovative methods in education, with promising applications in environmental sustainability studies. In this study, we developed 14 Digital Escape Rooms using the Social Cognitive Theory of Bandura as a theoretical framework. These were focused on environmental education and we tested them on a sample of 411 students (aged 12–18 years; 158 female, 38.4%). A one-group quasi-experimental research design was adopted, carrying out a pre-test post-test analysis. Each participant completed assessments at two time points: before engaging in the escape rooms (T0) and after (T1). The assessment tools included the Goal Assessment Scale (GAS) and the Perceived Climate Self-Efficacy Scale. Our findings revealed no significant gender differences in goal achievement. However, at T0, females exhibited higher levels of perceived climate self-efficacy in both individual and collective dimensions. Instead, the Digital Escape Rooms appeared particularly effective in increasing self-efficacy among male participants. These results suggest that Digital Escape Rooms hold potential for enhancing environmental self-efficacy, although gender differences in baseline efficacy levels warrant further exploration.

Development of Artificial Intelligence Environmental Education Program to Cultivate Ecological Citizenship of Elementary School Students

Development of Artificial Intelligence Environmental Education Program to Cultivate Ecological Citizenship of Elementary School Students

Evaluation of Coastal Management in the Municipality of Paulista/PE in the Light of the Decalogue

Brazil adopts Integrated Coastal Management as a way of protecting coastal environments through sustainable use and through the National Coastal Management Plan – PNGC structures actions directed at coastal areas, guaranteeing municipalities a prominent position in the integrative process. The structuring of the legal and institutional framework does not remove the picture of degradation borne by coastal cities, which have problems with sanitation, erosion and reduction of biodiversity. The general objective of this article is to analyze the Coastal Management process adopted by the municipality of Paulista, Pernambuco, in order to provide subsidies for institutionalization and sustainable governance. The methodology was structured in two parts. The first part used the Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) dataset available free of charge MapBiomas collection 6. The second part used the methodology proposed by Barragán in the “Decalogue for the Management of Coastal Areas”, where the 10 indicators are analyzed fundamental to evaluate actions related to coastal management. The methodology was adapted to include the mapping of the use and occupation of the municipality's coastal area over a period of 36 (thirty-six) years. The results of the analysis of land use and occupancy indicate a steady growth in anthropized areas from 1986 until the end of the 1990s, stabilizing with few changes. After an increase, there was a new stabilization between 2006 and 2012, followed by a notable growth in 2013–2014 and a subsequent period with less pronounced increments until the year 2021. Regarding the matrix analysis, there is a greater advancement in aspects related to Knowledge and Information, Normative and Competencies, whereas items such as Training and Capacity Building, Resources, and Public Policies require better strategic definitions by the municipality. As for the results of the matrix analysis, they reveal the need for the implementation of impact mitigation measures, the strengthening of oversight and monitoring, the development of strategies for climate change adaptation, the promotion of environmental education, and the fostering of scientific research in coastal areas. Finally, there is a suggestion for the continuous evaluation and correction of actions related to coastal and marine areas of the municipality, as well as the use of scientific evidence in decision-making.

The Impact of Environmental Knowledge on Food Waste Reduction and Sustainability Practices among Hospitality Students in Malaysia

Environmental sustainability and food waste reduction are among the critical challenges facing the hospitality industry worldwide. This study was conducted to identify the impact of environmental knowledge on food waste reduction and sustainability practices among hospitality students in Malaysia. A quantitative approach was used, and we surveyed 94 hospitality students from various programs at UiTM Penang. The online questionnaire was conducted and analyzed using Pearson correlation and multiple regression analysis. There is a significant positive correlation between environmental knowledge, food waste behaviors and sustainability-related behaviors. The strongest relationship was found between food waste behaviors and sustainability-related behaviors, suggesting that environmental knowledge and food waste practices are closely related to broader sustainability behaviors in hospitality education. The study contributes to the understanding of how environmental education can shape the future of hospitality professional practice, offering valuable insights for the development of industry curricula and training programs aimed at promoting sustainable practices in the hospitality sector.

The effect of parents' social and educational level and parental encouragement on environmental motivation among university students

Parental factors, such as educational and social levels, significantly influence children's personality development, creativity, and success. This study examines how parents' social and educational levels, along with parental encouragement, impact university students' motivation towards environmental protection. A random sample of 200 students from Al Ain University, Abu Dhabi campus, was surveyed. The results reveal no statistically significant differences in the responses regarding the role of parents in educating children about environmental preservation based on either parents' socioeconomic level (p = 0.174, p > 0.05) or educational level (p = 0.174, p > 0.05). The study found no statistically significant impact of parents' socioeconomic or educational levels on students' environmental motivation (p > 0.05). Implications for environmental education are discussed. The study underscores the importance of holistic environmental education efforts, advocating for raising awareness of pollution's impacts, fostering an environmental ethos, and encouraging responsible interaction with the environment, while recommending inclusive educational programs and enhanced community engagement to promote sustainable environmental stewardship.

Teaching for a sustainable future case studies from the green schools project in bulgaria

This article examines the implementation and impact of green education activities in primary schools across Bulgaria, as part of the Green Schools Project, supported by Erasmus+ Programme. Through detailed case studies, the research highlights how seven primary teachers integrated environmental education into their classrooms, fostering ecological awareness and sustainable practices among their students. The activities ranged from recycling projects and nature observation walks to role-playing games that traced the journey of food from seed to consumption. The findings demonstrate significant improvements in students' knowledge of ecological principles, increased motivation and engagement in green topics, and positive behavioral changes towards environmental stewardship. This study underscores the importance of integrating green education into the primary curriculum, providing insights and recommendations for future educational policies and practices aimed at nurturing responsible and proactive environmental citizens.

Synergy of Environmental Education Programs at The Bodogol Nature Conservation Education Center, Complementing The Independent Curriculum at Junior High Schools

Synergy of Environmental Education Programs at The Bodogol Nature Conservation Education Center, Complementing The Independent Curriculum at Junior High Schools

Green Infrastructure as a Sustainability Strategy for Biodiversity Preservation: The Case Study of Pantanos de Villa, Lima, Peru

Currently, the lack of adequate spaces for raising awareness among the population, coupled with disorderly urban growth, has led to an increase in water pollution from solid waste and the disruption of natural habitats in Villa Marshes. Therefore, this research focuses on implementing green corridors for the study of birdlife and environmental education, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of preserving this ecosystem. Various methodologies were employed, including climate analysis, characterization of flora and fauna, and bioclimatic design strategies supported by specialized software. The feasibility of this proposal was compared with other similar projects, emphasizing community importance. As a result, a network of green corridors was designed, including environmental education and visitor centers, along with the implementation of renewable energies to enhance energy efficiency. The main conclusion is that integrating renewable energies into the conservation of Villa Marshes offers a unique opportunity to promote a balance between human development and environmental protection.

Environmental impact of pharmaceutical contaminants in dumpsites: a study from Ejisu-Juaben municipality, Ghana

This study assessed the occurrence of nine pharmaceuticals (caffeine, ibuprofen, metronidazole, ciprofloxacin, amoxicillin, chloramphenicol, diclofenac, doxycycline, and paracetamol) in leachate and soil samples from eight dumpsites within the Ejisu-Juaben Municipality in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. It evaluated the ecotoxicological risk posed by these pharmaceuticals to organisms. The study also investigated the disposal patterns of pharmaceuticals by inhabitants of the municipality. After solid-phase extraction, the residues of selected antibiotics and analgesics in soil and leachate samples were analyzed using an HPLC–PDA method. Five of the pharmaceuticals were detected in the leachate and soil samples. Chloramphenicol, diclofenac, and paracetamol were detected in all leachate and soil samples, with concentrations ranging from 0.01 to 74.53 µg/L in leachate and 0.06–305.06 µg/kg in soil samples. Chloramphenicol had the highest concentration in leachate samples, while amoxicillin had the highest concentration in soil samples. Ecological risk assessment indicated that even the least detected pharmaceuticals posed a significant risk to fish, daphnia, and algae, with hazard quotients ranging from 0.56 to 1742.75. Survey results indicated that 71.0% of respondents disposed of unwanted or expired medicines. Within this group, 83.5% inappropriately disposed of expired drugs by placing them in household garbage, which is destined for dumpsites. Additionally, 52% of respondents wanted to protect the environment and would willingly contribute financially to enhance remediation efforts. The findings emphasize the urgent need for environmental policies and public education on proper pharmaceutical disposal to mitigate the ecological risks posed by pharmaceutical contaminants in developing regions. Altogether, the study highlights the presence of pharmaceutical residues in dumpsites at levels that could harm the ecosystem's health. Continuous monitoring and strategies to reduce pharmaceutical release into the environment are essential to protect the environment.

Analysis of the Teaching Reform Path for Environmental Engineering Technology Majors in Higher Vocational Education Based on the “1+X” Certificate

In the context of building an innovative country, the country has put forward higher requirements for talent cultivation in vocational colleges. Vocational colleges should continuously explore and improve talent cultivation work to meet these requirements while cultivating more professional and practical talents for the country and society. This article takes the Environmental Engineering Technology major as an example. Integrating the concept of “1+X” certificate into environmental engineering technology teaching can better construct the curriculum system of the Environmental Engineering Technology major, make the curriculum structure more scientific, complete and standardized, and help students understand the connection between certificates and education from multiple perspectives, thereby achieving effective reform of the curriculum of the Environmental Engineering Technology major. Based on this, the article will elaborate on the concept and significance of the “1+X” certificate and analyze in detail the teaching system construction ideas of the environmental engineering technology major courses in higher vocational education under the background of the “1+X” certificate. Studying the shortcomings in the current development of environmental engineering technology education in higher vocational education in China and proposing improvement measures for the environmental engineering technology major courses in higher vocational education to address existing problems will provide certain references and assistance for the subsequent reform of environmental engineering teaching in higher vocational education in China.

Individual, household and institutional level predictors of waste sorting: Evidence for Ecuador.

The rapid increase in waste generation in developing countries presents significant challenges, necessitating effective waste management strategies. This study examines the influence of individual, household and institutional factors on waste sorting behaviours in Ecuador, employing an ordered logistic regression model. Data were sourced from the 2019 National Multipurpose Household Survey (NMHS) and the Census of Economic Environmental Information in Decentralised Autonomous Governments (CEEIGAD). The NMHS uses a two-stage probabilistic sampling methodology, with census sectors as the primary sampling units and households as the secondary units. After excluding outliers and selecting individuals aged 15-65 years, the final sample consisted of 8601 households, including 26,175 individuals. The findings reveal that personal attributes such as gender, ethnicity, age, marital status and environmental concern significantly influence waste sorting behaviours. Household characteristics, including urban or rural location, are also critical. Institutional factors, such as municipal regulations, waste collection fees and waste separation at source, play essential roles in promoting waste separation. The study highlights the necessity for targeted governmental policies. Recommendations include improving environmental education, increasing sorting infrastructure in urban areas and ensuring waste collection systems maintain the separation of waste streams.

Eco Fiction in Child – Nature Pedagogical Interaction

The paper presents the results of an empirical study focused on eco fiction as a tool for facilitating child – nature pedagogical interaction. The priorities of preschool teachers in the field of environmental education and sustainable development are analysed. Reasons are presented for value inclusion in the world of nature through various activities before, during, and after perception of environment-oriented works of fiction. Options are substantiated for innovating environment-oriented interaction by conceptualizing a model design for working with eco fiction and its content and educational-applied provision through tools of dynamic activity integrity consolidated in a positive environment for children's vitality.

Juegos serios para la enseñanza-aprendizaje en educación ambiental

The need to shift to a responsible consumption model, encourage citizen participation, recycling habits, and water conservation, makes it vital to seek innovative ways for environmental education. Therefore, in this study, the serious games Save the Earth Planet ECO Inc. and Eco Ego were implemented in the teaching-learning process of high school students at Unidad Educativa Mariano Benítez, with the aim of promoting sustainable attitudes and behaviors, and raising awareness about environmental management and care. A quantitative, descriptive, and explanatory methodology with a quasi-experimental approach was followed. Before and after the use of these video games, a survey was conducted to measure participants’ opinions and perceptions of learning in environmental education. As a result, the application of serious games succeeded in promoting more sustainable attitudes and behaviors towards the environment among the participants, leading to reflective learning, meaningful experiences of reconnection with nature, and the strengthening of their commitment and participation in ecosystem protection.

A bird in the hand: connecting children and wildlife through hands-on experiences with birds

ABSTRACT Human-wildlife interactions can strengthen environmental stewardship. Birds in particular harbor significant potential for environmental education and outreach to children. However, the benefits of interacting with birds for children remain unclear. To address this gap, we developed an avian education program by incorporating the ecological method of mist-netting into human dimensions research to understand how hands-on experiences with birds affected children. We used pre- and post-program surveys to examine the impacts of the program on bird knowledge, connection to birds, connection to nature, and environmental values among children (n = 21), aged 11–15 years, who participated in a nature camp in Illinois, U.S.A. We found positive effects of the program on children’s psychological connection to birds and nature, whereas knowledge and values were not significantly influenced by participation. Our study is among the first to empirically demonstrate the effectiveness of mist-netting birds in fostering children’s penchant for for wildlife conservation.

Changing Politics for Changing Times: Rethinking Research Stakeholders and Strategies for Environmental Education

Abstract The history of environmental education in Australia is political, and fraught with power battles. Indeed, environmental education in Australia (as in many places elsewhere) has always been political. The early calls for environmental education came as a response to the perceived growing environmental crises on the 1960s. At this time, it was seen as a scientific and social priority by scientists, environmentalists and academics, but it was not seen as an educational priority by education departments. Rather, environmental educators were treated as yet another adjectival education lobby group wanting space in an already overcrowded curriculum. There was a time when most state education authorities were engaging with environmental education, but the politicisation of the placement of sustainability as (an optional) cross-curriculum priority has enabled avoidance of the politics of environmental issues and thereby a political stance that is tacitly supporting the status quo of the current neoliberal political systems. This article argues that the times have changed and so has the nature of politics and power bases, and it is time to rethink approaches to environmental education research and recognise that the politics of the past may not be the politics of the future as the generations grow different.

Integrating theory and practice: knowledge exchange and engagement of nursery managers in ecological restoration

Ecological restoration requires the social collaboration of all stakeholders. Native plant nursery managers potentially possess substantial knowledge in native plant cultivation derived from their practical experience, and they could also be consumers of information generated by scientists. Furthermore, their active involvement in various stages of restoration projects could enhance efficiency and ensure successful outcomes. In this study, nursery managers from Argentina associated with restoration projects were surveyed to assess their level of knowledge exchange with the scientific community, the degree of participation in restoration projects, and their perceptions regarding this collaboration. The surveys were completed by 39 nursery managers from native plant nurseries in Argentina. Our findings indicated that, although nursery managers often adopted scientific protocols, there remains a significant communication gap between scientists and nursery managers. Nursery managers contributed beyond seedling production, including planning, planting, maintenance, and environmental education. Despite recognizing its importance, few nursery managers participated in project evaluations. Nursery managers could serve as both providers of cultural and practical insights and receivers of novel knowledge from the academic‐scientific realm. Moreover, as the nursery managers are familiar with the local context and can potentially facilitate connections with other local stakeholders, their involvement as additional social actors not only enhances the success but also adds legitimacy to the restoration projects they engage in. Such collaboration is crucial for achieving the goals of both international and national restoration initiatives.

Innovating Built Environment Education to Achieve SDG 4: Key Drivers for Integrating Augmented Reality Technologies

Augmented Reality Technologies (ARTs) are increasingly pivotal in transforming various industries, with notable implications for the built environment sector. This article delves into the drivers of ART adoption for education and training within the built environment, focusing on its role in enhancing educational delivery and operational efficiency. Utilising a structured survey distributed among professionals in South Africa’s built environment, this study employs descriptive and inferential statistics to analyse the data, identifying key trends and correlations. Our results demonstrated that ART significantly enhances task accuracy, fosters better collaboration and mitigates misinformation, thereby improving training and education outcomes. Professionals particularly highlight ART’s capacity to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical site experience, underscoring its value in preparatory education and on-site training. Furthermore, the analysis revealed that the integration of ART into educational curricula and professional practices not only augments learning experiences but also propels safety and quality in construction projects. Given these findings, this study strongly recommends that stakeholders in the construction and educational sectors in South Africa prioritise the adoption of ART to fully leverage its benefits for innovation and competitive advantage in the built environment.

From Policy to Practice: Unpacking the Politics and Realities of Environmental Education Policy in Chinese Primary Schools

Abstract In recent years, China’s strong commitment to the political agenda of ecological civilisation has increased the presence of environmental education (EE) in the policy arena. Using the waste classification policy as an example, this research explores the implementation of EE policy in two Chinese primary schools. Through the use of a policy enactment framework, the findings reveal that contextual factors such as school enrolment, infrastructure and external influences from the District Bureau greatly influence the schools’ policy capacity. By exploring the internal policy flow and school artefacts, it was found that although the waste classification policy was enacted similarly in the selected primary schools, the outcomes differed significantly. These variations highlight the complexities and challenges of implementing an EE policy under ecological civilisation and contribute to the understanding of the tension between localised adaptations and the nationally politicised EE policy mandates.