Environmental Education and the Future: An Essential Commitment to Sustainability

Abstract

Environmental education from an early age is vital for the development of a sustainable consciousness. Children should learn to value and take care of the environment from a young age. Practical activities, tailored to their abilities, can teach them about the importance of protecting fauna and flora, which are fundamental for the perpetuation of their own species. The family plays a crucial role in this initial learning, although this responsibility is not always fulfilled. Therefore, schools take on a fundamental role in environmental education. An effective methodology to teach children about caring for the planet is through stories and practices that involve the use of recycled materials. These activities not only awaken creativity and interest in the young but also teach them about resource reuse and the importance of waste reduction. For example, constructing objects from recycled materials can be a fun and educational way to introduce concepts of sustainability. These educational practices, when started in childhood, have the potential to form more conscious and responsible adults regarding the environment. Environmental education in schools, complementing the role of the family, is essential to build a more sustainable and responsible society, where each individual understands their role in preserving the planet for future generations.

Keywords: Environmental Education; Sustainability; Recycling; Ecological Consciousness.