Perceptions, Practices and Priorities: Exploring Environmental Concerns and Engagement among Government College Students in Dhaka City
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70112/arss-2026.15.1.4424Keywords:
Environmental Issues, Student Behavior, Environmental Concern, Students, Government College, Environmental PracticesAbstract
Bangladesh is highly susceptible to environmental problems, and the involvement and concerns of its sizable young population can significantly influence sustainability initiatives and future solutions. This study investigates the most pressing environmental issues, youths' prevalent practices, and perceptions regarding the governmental and personal roles in addressing environmental challenges. In this study, 382 students from three government institutions in Dhaka were surveyed, following a quantitative method with a semi-structured questionnaire. The study locations were chosen purposively, while a stratified random sampling technique ensured proportionate representation across institutions, academic disciplines, and genders. Results illustrate that climate change, deforestation, waste management, air pollution, and water pollution are the major concerns. Students predominantly practice energy and water conservation, food-waste reduction, and basic waste disposal, which can be described as routine, low-effort environmental behaviors. However, participation in higher and collective efforts requiring practices like waste segregation, sustainable consumption, composting, public transport use, and community participation is less prevalent. Results also demonstrate that students strongly believe that their individual actions can significantly shape the environmental landscape, and they are not content with government efforts. Finally, they overwhelmingly support the enforcement of strict environmental policy, mandatory environmental education, and college-led environmental campaign participation. The findings underscore the need for strict and practicable environmental laws, increased government investment in renewable energy, and strengthened environmental education and habitat conservation facilities via well-planned initiatives.
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