Abstract
As the world currently experiences an ecological crisis, the younger generation is urged to act on preserving nature by refocusing their minds on environmental discussions and adapting more sustainable behaviors. This study investigated the relationship between Environmental Awareness and Sustainability Perception and Attitude of Generation Z using a descriptive-correlational research design. This study is conducted on 382 Generation Z students (ages 18-25 years old) in a higher education institution in Davao City. The findings revealed that Generation Z students have a high level of Environmental Awareness (x̄ = 3.98) and very high Sustainability Perception and Attitude (x̄ = 4.27). Furthermore, there is a significant positive strong correlation between their level of environmental awareness and sustainability perception and attitude (r =0.568). The results indicate that Generation Z students highly consider the importance of environmental awareness in their actions, and they have a high positive perception and attitude towards sustainable behavior. This revealed that with the Generation Z students’ heightened knowledge and awareness in terms of the environment, there is also a heightened positive perception and attitude towards promoting sustainability with regards to the society, economy, and environment. To enhance the knowledge of students on environmental issues and orient their actions towards sustainability, the authors recommended for a stronger integration of environmental information in college curriculum. The authors also suggested the university to strengthen its pro-environment policies to empower more students to become conscious with their actions. It was also suggested for future researchers to further investigate the factors and mediating influences that could affect how students perceive the environment and the concept of sustainable development or use other generations as samples for comparison or another scope of study.
