Environmental Awareness and Pro-Environmental Behaviour Among Youth in Gujarat: An Analytical Study of An Awareness–Action Gap

Environmental sustainability has emerged as a critical global concern, highlighting the importance of understanding factors that promote environmentally responsible behaviour among younger generations. The present study examines the relationship between environmental awareness and pro-environmental behaviour among youth in Gujarat, India. A quantitative research design was adopted using a structured questionnaire administered through an online survey. A total of 114 valid responses were collected and analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, simple linear regression, independent sample t-tests, and one-way ANOVA. The findings reveal that respondents generally possess high levels of environmental awareness and demonstrate moderate to high levels of pro-environmental behaviour. Correlation analysis indicates a statistically significant positive relationship between environmental awareness and pro-environmental behaviour (r = 0.286, p = 0.002). Regression analysis further confirms that environmental awareness significantly predicts pro-environmental behaviour; however, its explanatory power remains limited (R² = 0.082), suggesting that additional factors influence behavioural outcomes. Demographic analyses indicate no significant differences across gender and educational groups, while age demonstrates a limited influence on behavioural practices. The study highlights the persistence of an awareness–action gap, wherein environmental knowledge does not necessarily translate into consistent environmental action. The findings suggest that environmental education and sustainability initiatives should move beyond awareness creation and focus on behavioural facilitation, experiential learning, and supportive institutional mechanisms. The study contributes to the growing literature on environmental behaviour by providing empirical evidence from Gujarat and offers practical insights for policymakers, educators, and environmental organisations seeking to promote sustainable lifestyles among youth.