Environmental Awareness and Sustainable Practices among Residents of Ibadan, Southwestern Nigeria

This study explores the level of environmental awareness and the practice of sustainability among the residents of Ibadan, Southwestern Nigeria. By employing stratified random sampling, the research ensures that various demographic groups are adequately represented. A quantitative survey was administered to 400 participants to assess their understanding of environmental challenges, their participation in sustainable actions, and their perspectives on environmental policies. Findings indicate that 75% of respondents demonstrate moderate to high levels of knowledge, reflecting a relatively strong awareness of environmental issues within the community. The primary environmental concerns highlighted include climate change (80%), waste management (70%), pollution (55%), and deforestation (50%). A Chi-square analysis indicated a significant correlation between educational attainment and environmental awareness (χ² = 15.67, p < 0.05). Factor analysis revealed two separate dimensions of sustainable behavior: daily habits and lifestyle choices. Additionally, an ANOVA test indicated significant variations in sustainable practices across different age groups (F = 4.32, p < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis identified limited access to resources as the most significant predictor of diminished sustainable behavior (β = -0.35, p < 0.01). Furthermore, a Pearson correlation analysis demonstrated a positive association between environmental awareness and support for environmental policies (r = 0.58, p < 0.01). This study underscores the importance of enhancing environmental awareness through education and community involvement, alongside improving infrastructure and policy implementation. Increasing access to sustainable alternatives and engaging communities can promote greater participation and foster long-term environmental stewardship.