Environmental Sustainability Knowledge, Attitude and Practices among Pre-school Students

Abstract

The study aimed to examine the knowledge, attitude and practices of environmental sustainability of pre-school students in Malaysia. This study applied a quantitative method comprising questionnaires with 500 pre-school students. Research variables were knowledge of recyclable and non-recyclable materials, sustainability knowledge, sustainability attitudes and sustainability Reuse-Reduce-Recycle (3R) practices. Most variables including knowledge of recyclable and non-recyclable materials, sustainability knowledge, sustainability attitudes and sustainability Reuse-Reduce-Recycle (3R) practices were at high levels. While, the analysis of correlation test explained that there was a significant relationship between every variables. It can be concluded that a high level of knowledge does not give effect in increasing the sustainability practices of students. Therefore, a strong commitment from teachers are requires to improve the knowledge, attitude and practice of sustainability in the early stages of education. The readiness of early childhood education teachers in respect of continuous training in various sustainability activities is a vital requirement to systematically and effectively apply sustainability practices.