Study goals
This research presents a study on environmental education in the city of São João Del Rei, where the involvement of citizens of Sanjoanense with sustainable practices (recycling workshops, lectures, planting activities, fairs on recycling, among others) was analyzed. carried out by the Sustainability in Action project during the years 2016 to 2019.
Relevance / originality
Environmental sustainability is based on an economic and social development that does not generate negative impacts on the Environment and keeps it safe for generations. Therefore, the intelligent use of resources available to humanity is essential. Thus, it will be necessary to change the population in their consumption habits, disposal, substitution of use and recycling of materials, among other factors that can minimize harmful effects to the environment. One of the ways to raise awareness is the insertion and continuity of environmental education in schools, educational institutions and other public and private spheres that make up society. Through the participation of civil society in environmental issues, it is possible to develop their critical sense, their participation and monitoring in the formation of public policies that can solve the problems of their city and even their country.
Methodology / approach
To support the study, a theoretical overview was carried out on the theme of sustainability, urban solid waste management, environmental education, social management. Also, a comparison of the actions carried out during the years of the project was carried out, where they were compared with the studied bibliography, with the purpose of analyzing the progression of the activities and the people involved.
Main results
The results presented indicate that the vast majority of respondents aim to satisfy the needs of the present, without compromising the needs of future generations, where a large part say they are willing to adopt sustainable practices and actions, such as selective collection, waste recycling, water rationalization, energy rationalization among others.
Theoretical / methodological contributions
Therefore, this study may serve as a sign of social participation in issues related to the environment, being of importance for the academic environment and for society.
Social / management contributions
Thus, it appears that environmental education is essential, as it turns individual interests into collectives to achieve the common good. However, greater efforts from other public and private spheres are still needed to form effective public policies in the environmental area and the participation of society as a whole.