DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES IN EDUCATION AS A TOOL FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY: ANALYSIS OF INNOVATIVE APPROACHES AND RISKS

This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the role of digital technologies in education as a tool for ensuring environmental security.Emphasis is placed on innovative digital methods and tools that enhance ecological awareness and promote sustainable development practices.The study highlights key digital technologies currently applied in environmental education, including virtual laboratories, interactive AR/VR simulations, mobile applications, and gamified learning platforms.Special attention is given to the com parative assessment of digitalization levels in secondary schools and higher education institutions, revealing a significant gap in the integration of environmental topics between these educational stages.Additionally, the paper identifies critical risks associated with digitalization in education, such as digital inequality, inadequate digital competencies among educators, and the potential environmental harm caused by the production and disposal of digital devices.Based on the analysis, practical recommendations are provided to facilitate effective implementation of digital technologies in educational processes, including the development of specialized interactive courses, continuous professional development for teachers, creation of unified digital educational platforms, and the encouragement of practical ecological projects.The findings underscore the necessity of systematic and ba lanced integration of digital solutions into ecological education programs, aiming not only to enhance students' ecological awareness but also to address global ecological challenges through informed and responsible behavior.Moreover, the article emphasizes the need for inclusive policy frameworks that support equitable access to environmental education in the digital age, ensuring longterm environmental resilience and awareness.