Investigation of Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices toward Environmental Sustainabilityamong Omani college students

Abstract

Previous studies focused on the examination of general knowledge and awareness on environmental issues. Gaps in research revealed that there are still some misconceptions and lack of knowledge, attitudes and practices on environmental sustainability. Thus, this study investigated the knowledge, attitudes and practices toward environmental sustainability among Omani college students. It employed a quantitative approach with descriptive and inferential statistics. It utilized a 15-item Likert scale self-made questionnaire through google form survey among college students at Bayan College, Oman. It used SPSS version 26 for data analysis. Reliability test showed acceptable internal consistency of Cronbach's Alpha =.834. Descriptive statistics revealed that Omani college students have a low level of knowledge about the programs, projects and/or organizations working on environmentalissues in their community. They also have a low level of knowledge on waste segregation management. Results implied that respondents’ environmental practices on sustainable energy use and water conservation are highly evident. Results implied the need for strengthening community-based environmental programs and activities. Results for exploratory factorial analysis revealed high loadings. Results implied that even if Omani college students have high level of knowledge of recycling practices and moderate level of knowledge about use of low carbon development strategies that impact reduction of climate change and conservation of sustainable energy toward environmental sustainability, it does not necessarily follow that they have high level of environmental practices such as waste segregation practices according to recycling types. Results of the study also implied that there is an urgent need to leverage strategic and coordinated mechanisms in higher education forthe promotion and implementation of community-based and campus-based policies, programs, workshops and training on promoting environmental sustainability. Results also implied that there is a need to leverage strategic implementation and use of public transportation and/ or bicycles in Oman towards promotion of a green economy. Thus, this implied that environmental governance could be mobilized by multi-stakeholders for the welfare of Oman constituents.