Assessing Green Practices: Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Initiatives Toward Climate Change-Responsive Behavior in Schools
摘要
The adoption of green practices in schools plays a crucial role in fostering environmental sustainability and climate resilience. This study evaluates the effectiveness of green initiatives implemented in Malaysian primary and secondary schools through a structured green auditing program. A mixed-method approach was employed, incorporating site surveys, baseline assessments, and postimplementation evaluations to assess schools’ environmental awareness, resource management efficiency, and sustainability practices. Key findings highlight the role of biodiversity conservation, carbon footprint reduction, and climate adaptation strategies in enhancing ecological responsibility within educational institutions. Additionally, this study identifies critical areas for improvement, including energy consumption, waste management, and water conservation, which can be addressed through strategic interventions such as renewable energy adoption, composting programs, and rainwater harvesting systems. The research emphasizes the importance of integrating environmental education into school curricula, empowering students to become proactive agents of sustainability. By establishing a formal green auditing framework, schools can systematically monitor and enhance their environmental performance, aligning with national and global sustainability agendas. This study contributes to the discourse on sustainable education and offers policy recommendations to strengthen the role of schools in Malaysia’s broader environmental conservation efforts.