Environmental awareness level of secondary school students: A case study in Balikesir (Turkiye)

In this study, secondary school students' awareness of environmental issues and problems and the level of their active participation in environmental activities have been identified, and the effects of some factors as family school and media on their environmental awareness and active participation have been investigated. The study was carried out in Balikesir city centre by conducting a survey on senior students consisting of 6 classes from three secondary schools which have different demographic and socio-economic levels. The results of the study showed a high level of environmental awareness among participant students. However, it is understood that environmental disclosures made in schools are insufficient and the participation level of students to environmental activities is low. Students rather gain experiences in the field of environment from mass media (i.e. audio, printed and visual media). It is revealed that female students have a higher level of environmental awareness and active participation level. In addition, when family income and family education level increases, environmental awareness and active participation level of students also increases. (C) 2014 Published by Elsevier Ltd.