Environmental education for sustainable development in Bangladesh and its challenges

Abstract

Environmental Education is very vital to reaching the agenda of Sustainable Development Goals. However, a lack of environmental awareness and gaps in theoretical knowledge and its practices still exists in Bangladesh. Therefore, this research aims to understand the students' perceptions of whether and how their behavior is environment‐friendly to achieve sustainable development goals. It also addresses teachers' perceptions of what are the shortcomings of environmental education in Bangladesh. It uses qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis techniques based on in‐depth interviews, surveys among different categories of participants, and classroom observation. The article finds that the level of Environmental Education and students' awareness of the environment is inadequate. Some teachers believe that Environmental Education is not better in Bangladesh due to the absence of practical learning of Environmental Education, lack of motivations and actions, institutional weakness, inadequate policies, poor implementation, and cultural and traditional beliefs. Thus, this article argues that Bangladeshi Environmental Education is insufficient to change the students' behavior towards the environment, making it difficult for the country to ensure Sustainable Development.

Assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and practice regarding air pollution and health effects among general people: A multi-divisional cross-sectional study in Bangladesh

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Youth’s climate consciousness: unraveling the Dengue-climate connection in Bangladesh

“…Key factors such as marital status, family structure, smoking habits, self-perception of physical health, sleep patterns, social media usage, age, employment status, media consumption, and their relationship with knowledge and perceptions regarding climate change and its link to dengue fever play a pivotal role. By focusing on these significant variables, the study provides a foundation for developing tailored climate change education and awareness programs, enhancing knowledge, and fostering positive attitudes among the youth in Bangladesh ( 28 ). This, in turn, contributes to improved public health and environmental resilience in the face of climate change challenges.…”

Exploring the “Can Do” and “Will Do” factors of human capital to enhance university performance

“…Constructing high-performing and competitive universities is of utmost importance due to the significant contribution of universities to development in the region and their role as key drivers in achieving sustainable development goals (Al-Kuwari et al, 2021; universities with Goal Four of the Sustainable Development Goals, which aims to ensure inclusive and quality education for all and promote lifelong learning. Goal Four emphasizes enhancing the quality of human life to achieve sustainable development through access to quality higher education, reflecting the Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) concept launched by the United Nations (Uddin, 2024;Vargas-Merino et al, 2024). ESD aims to educate, motivate, and empower human resources, especially the younger generation, with knowledge, skills, and awareness of sustainability to change attitudes and behaviors and engage in sustainable development (Al-Kuwari et al, 2021;Awuzie & Emuze, 2017;Chankseliani et al, 2021;Kioupi & Voulvoulis, 2019;Novawan & Aisyiyah, 2020;Novo-Corti et al, 2018;Pauw et al, 2015;Wu & Shen, 2016).…”