Effectiveness of Environmental Education through Social Media in India

Abstract

As concerns of climate change rise, the need for effective educational interventions to promote eco-consciousness and sustainable practices among the youth in India has become increasingly urgent. Various studies have explored the effectiveness of environmental education through social media in India. Ahmad (2015) found that videos were more effective than pamphlets in influencing youth on environmental education. However, Chung (2020) noted that while young adults access environmental information through social media, they often do not engage with or share this content. Gupta (2020) emphasized the importance of behavior change theories and social support in enhancing the effectiveness of social media interventions. Laiphrakpam (2019) highlighted the role of environmental education in increasing awareness and driving behavioral change among students in India. These studies collectively suggest that while social media can be a powerful tool for environmental education, its effectiveness depends on the content and engagement strategies used.

This study investigates the role of social media as a platform for environmental education and its influence on young people's environmental awareness and behavioral habits. A quantitative research design was employed, utilizing a structured online questionnaire with close-ended questions to collect data from 100 young social media users in India. The survey covered demographics, social media usage, environmental awareness and behavioral habits.

The results demonstrate that social media can effectively increase environmental awareness among young people and encourage healthy behavioral changes. This study underscores the potential of social media as an effective instrument for spreading environmental education and fostering a generation of environmentally responsible citizens in India.