Smartphone Use and Environmental Sustainability Awareness and Practices Among Students of Al Ain University: A Cross-Sectional Correlational Study

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of the use of smartphones on the students’ environmental awareness and the adoption of environmental sustainability practices at the University of Al Ain. A descriptive analytical approach was used and a questionnaire was employed to gather data from a voluntary non-probability sample of 90 students from different academic programs at the university. The research focuses on five main areas: students’ environmental sustainability awareness, perceived positive uses of smartphones, perceived negative environmental consequences of smartphone use, the association between smartphone use and sustainable practices, and suggestions for improving smartphone-supported environmental sustainability. The results showed that students were at a medium level of environmental awareness, both in theory and practice, as they had a good understanding in theory but were not actively involved in environmental activities. In terms of positive effects, students demonstrated their ability to use smartphones as tools to raise awareness and promote sustainable practices, including using less paper and taking part in digital environmental efforts. But the problems were that there was more e-waste because phones were being replaced so often and energy consumption was unnecessary. The study revealed a moderate positive correlation between the use of smartphones and the adoption of sustainable practices, indicating the role of smartphones in environmental activities. The study recommends some solutions, including creating an environmental awareness app, holding digital competitions, etc. It suggests raising awareness among students regarding recycling and electronic waste and promoting the use of smartphones in a sustainable manner for a positive impact on the environment.