Abstract
This study aimed to understand the lived experiences of students in living out environmental protocols under the Green University Initiatives of Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU). It sought to explore how students internalize and respond to institutional sustainability efforts in their everyday lives. The study used a qualitative single-holistic case study design and identified four (4) fourth-year college students who were active members of environmentally affiliated student organizations. Data were gathered through interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. The results revealed students’ experiences, challenges, and coping strategies in living out green practices. Four themes emerged in their experiences: way of life anchored in green university values, consistent practice of environmentally responsible behaviors, environmental protocols as opportunities for habit formation, and peer-driven accountability. The challenges were identified as lack of awareness and visibility of environmental guidelines, insufficient disposal facilities, weak internalization, habitual noncompliance, and lack of student discipline. To cope, students relied on peer reminders, personal discipline, and selective participation in environmental efforts. Despite the institutional support, the study found gaps in awareness, enforcement, and infrastructure. The study recommends strengthening orientation programs, reinforcing peer accountability, and improving environmental infrastructure to sustain student engagement in university green initiatives.
