Examining the impact of environmental education on connectedness to nature, environmental values and pro-environmental behavior among Nigerian undergraduates

Abstract

In a world increasingly threatened by environmental challenges, understanding the factors that drive pro-environmental behavior (PEB) is crucial. This study investigates the levels of connectedness to nature (CN), environmental values (EV), and environmental behavior (EB) among Nigerian undergraduates, with a particular focus on the role of environmental education (EE) in shaping these constructs. Through a cross-sectional survey of 508 students across 12 universities within Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, the findings reveal a strong connection to nature and a higher endorsement of biospheric and altruistic values over hedonic and egoistic ones, albeit with notable regional and institutional variations. While respondents actively engaged in practices such as energy conservation and sustainable transportation, their participation in organized environmental actions, like recycling and group membership, remains limited. Although students enrolled in EE courses rated higher across CN, EV, and EB constructs, enrollment alone did not emerge as a significant predictor of PEB. These results underscore the urgency of fostering deeper connections to nature and integrating value-based, immersive, and practical educational approaches to enhance PEB. With broader implications for EE and sustainability efforts, particularly in developing countries, this study provides valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and researchers striving to promote environmental stewardship in Nigeria and similar contexts.