Green School Practices To Strengthen Environmental Awareness And Sustainable Behavior In Education

Abstract

Environmental challenges demand educational responses that integrate sustainability into daily practice. This study investigates how green school practices strengthen environmental awareness and sustainable behavior among students. A qualitative design was employed through interviews, observations, and document analysis in schools implementing environmental programs. The study examines implementation processes, the development of environmental awareness, and behavioral outcomes. The findings show that structured activities such as waste management, school gardening, and energy conservation create experiential learning environments that connect knowledge with action. Students demonstrate increased understanding of environmental issues, stronger ecological concern, and active participation in sustainability practices. Awareness develops through continuous exposure, reflective learning, and social interaction within the school environment. Sustainable behavior emerges through repeated practice, peer influence, and teacher guidance, leading to consistent pro-environmental actions that extend beyond school settings. These results indicate that green school practices support the integration of environmental values into school culture and contribute to long-term behavioral transformation. The study highlights the importance of participatory, structured, and sustained environmental programs in promoting sustainability-oriented education.