INFLUENCE OF ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION ON WASTE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AMONG STUDENTS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN.

This study examines the influence of environmental education on waste management practice among students at the University of Benin. Guided by four research questions, the study investigates the impact of environmental education, the relationship between environmental knowledge, attitudes, and waste management practices, the challenges hindering efective waste management, and the strategies that enhance sustainable practices. A survey research design was adopted, with a population of 223 students enrolled in Environmental Education. The study utilized a questionnaire titled “Influence of Environmental Education on Waste Management Practices among Students at the University of Benin” (IEEWMPASUB), and data collected from 200 valid responses were analyzed using frequency counts and simple percentages. The findings reveal that environmental education positively influences students’ awareness, attitudes, and behaviors towards waste management, fostering responsible waste practices. A strong positive correlation was observed between students' environmental knowledge and their waste management habits. Key challenges identified include inadequate infrastructure, limited institutional support, financial and time constraints, and insuf icient waste collection facilities. The study also highlights ef ective strategies such as practical experience, community collaboration, curriculum integration, and digital tools in promoting sustainable waste management. The study concludes that environmental education plays a vital role in shaping students’ waste management behaviors and recommends embedding environmental topics into academic programs, enhancing institutional support, organizing regular workshops, and fostering partnerships with environmental agencies. The study suggests further research into cross-university comparisons, long-term impacts of environmental education, and the role of socioeconomic factors in waste management practices