University of Arkansas Students’ Perceptions, Interests, and Behaviors Related to Sustainability

This study assessed new (n = 1,022) and returning (n = 1,947) undergraduates’ perceptions of sustainability, personal sustainability behaviors, and their awareness of the University of Arkansas Office for Sustainability and sustainability efforts on campus. New and returning students placed a moderately high importance on sustainability, but their awareness of and interest in campus sustainability programs and courses and sustainability careers was low. Students most preferred to learn about campus sustainability efforts through email and social media. Majorities of both new and returning students indicated they would practice the sustainable behavior in four typical campus sustainability scenarios; significantly (p < 0.05) higher percentages of returning students selected the sustainable behavior for two scenarios. There was no significant difference between new and returning students on Sustainability Self-Concept; both groups were uncertain to moderately positive. As expected, returning students scored significantly (p = 0.03) higher on Sustainability Program Awareness; however, the effect size was very small (Cohen's d = 0.09). Sustainability Self-Concept had significant (p < 0.05) low to moderate positive correlations with selection of the sustainable behavior for each of the four sustainability scenarios. The Office of Sustainability should increase targeted communications and educational efforts about campus sustainability initiatives, academic programs, and careers.