Youth’s knowledge and awareness of human contribution to climate change: the influence of social and cultural contexts within a developing country

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction Climate change is a pressing topic as scientists continue to reveal its links to human activities as contributing factors to its exacerbation. These observations lead global governments to seek initiatives that could mitigate these negative impacts. South Africa’s government has attempted to grow knowledge and awareness by incorporating climate change topics into the Grades 10 to 12 high school curriculum. Objective The objective is to establish “What are youths” knowledge and awareness of climate change and their impact on their environment?’ Method Twenty-nine first-year biology students responded to a questionnaire in 2020. Results Although environmental education provided by the curriculum is important to the development of students’ knowledge and awareness of anthropogenic factors contributing to climate change, social and cultural contexts linked to poverty within a developing country determine the extent to which pro-environmental behaviours are asserted. Conclusion As youth are future decision makers, it is vital to understand their perspectives on the human contribution to climate change. This study illustrates that they can be change agents and contribute to pro-environmental behaviours with adequate knowledge and awareness, which can help them make informed decisions in their current contexts and as future leaders.