Educação Ambiental e Resíduos Sólidos: uma prática de ensino de Geografia em escola pública.

Abstract

This research delves into the significance of environmental education and solid waste management (SWM) as pedagogical tools within Geography classes in a public school, Centro Educa Mais Menino Jesus de Praga. The study is motivated by the increasing challenges posed by excessive consumption and inadequate waste disposal, which have profound implications for public health and the environment. The primary objective is to assess the school community's knowledge and practices regarding SWM, underscoring the imperative for effective environmental education to foster awareness among students, faculty, and staff about the importance of proper waste disposal and sustainable practices. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research revealed a substantial gap in the school community's knowledge of correct waste disposal procedures and a lack of consolidated environmental education. The findings highlight the strategic role of schools as transformative agents capable of driving behavioral changes aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to environmental preservation and quality of life. The study advocates for the implementation of comprehensive educational programs and awareness-raising initiatives within the school setting to promote behaviors conducive to sustainability and cultivate a citizenry committed to environmental stewardship. In conclusion, this research underscores the pivotal role of environmental education in schools and emphasizes the collective effort required from the school community to foster socio-environmental responsibility and build a society attuned to the environmental consequences of consumption patterns and waste disposal habits