This study examined the environmental orientation of young people between 10 and 19 years old in a city in Southern Brazil, describing their position regarding ecological values, their behavior towards the environment and the perception they have of environmental problems. With this purpose, 443 students answered a questionnaire. Perceived environmental problems most frequently cited were related to pollution and garbage. Related garbage actions were the most practiced. The results also indicated a positive orientation towards the environmental preservation in all dimensions investigated: eco-affinity, eco-cognition and ecological values, suggesting a willingness to engage in pro-environmental behaviors. However, results regarding environmental perception and pro-environmental behaviors demonstrated limitations concerning the perception of the city demands. We conclude the participants are potential environmental advocates, even though they know few strategies to preserve the environment, which represents a challenge towards transforming their perception and values into coherent and effective environmental actions.
Environmental orientation in a Brazilian city
Longhinotti, Maira;
2013
Abstract
This study examined the environmental orientation of young people between 10 and 19 years old in a city in Southern Brazil, describing their position regarding ecological values, their behavior towards the environment and the perception they have of environmental problems. With this purpose, 443 students answered a questionnaire. Perceived environmental problems most frequently cited were related to pollution and garbage. Related garbage actions were the most practiced. The results also indicated a positive orientation towards the environmental preservation in all dimensions investigated: eco-affinity, eco-cognition and ecological values, suggesting a willingness to engage in pro-environmental behaviors. However, results regarding environmental perception and pro-environmental behaviors demonstrated limitations concerning the perception of the city demands. We conclude the participants are potential environmental advocates, even though they know few strategies to preserve the environment, which represents a challenge towards transforming their perception and values into coherent and effective environmental actions.I documenti in SFERA sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
