Identifying University Students' Perceptions of Climate Change Related to Energy-saving Behaviors

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and tackling climate change are urgent challenges for today’s society and future generations; however, our efforts to tackle these issues fall short of expectations. Specifically, universities are the second-largest greenhouse gas emitters and represent the only type of building whose energy consumption continues to rise despite numerous regulations. This energy consumption occurs because university members do not directly benefit from initiatives to reduce their energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This study aims to propose a pathway for sustainable campus development from the user’s perspective, based on the characteristics of universities, by surveying and analyzing awareness that significantly influences attitudes and behaviors toward climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. To connect environmental perception with spatial design, a survey was conducted targeting architecture and interior design students, who are among the primary users of the campus. Eighty-one copies were utilized for analysis, including frequency, mean, F-test, and T-test. The results are as follows: First, students recognize the challenges of climate change and greenhouse gas emissions; however, this awareness does not motivate them to take action. Secondly, students believe that altering user behavior and offering economic incentives are crucial strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which differ based on academic year and perspectives regarding the appropriateness of climate change responses. To address this issue, universities must create a personalized physical environment that accounts for changing user characteristics to encourage participation in sustainable campus life and development. Additionally, they need educational programs that raise awareness and knowledge to motivate and promote involvement in these activities.