Towards a More Sustainable Future: The Importance of Environmental Education in Developing Attitudes towards Environmental Protection

National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Department of Psychology, pedagogics, and sociology, Studentski grad, 21 Acad. Stefan Mladenov Str., 1700 Sofia, Bulgaria

^* Corresponding author: inavladova@nsa.bg

Abstract

This article discusses the importance of environmental education in promoting sustainable development and forming attitudes toward environmental protection. The reviewed literature identifies environmental education as a process that provides opportunities for people to engage with environmental issues and take action to improve the environment. The goal of environmental education is to create environmental literacy and develop a greater respect for nature that will lead to informed and responsible decisions. Incorporating environmental education into the curriculum is essential, seeking to change public opinion and instill social responsibility. The hallmarks of environmental education are its relevance to sustainable development, interdisciplinary approach, and emphasis on real-world and practical activities. Understanding environmental education and its role in shaping attitudes towards environmental protection is essential to tracking its practical implications in education.