From Awareness to Action: How Urban Greening and Climate Change Shape Student Health Perceptions in Higher Education

Alexandros Lingos (), Gerasimina-Theodora Zapanti, Nikolaos Klioumis, Panagiotis-Rafail Karaevangelou and Constantina Skanavis
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Alexandros Lingos: Research Unit of Environmental Education & Communication, Department of Public & Community Health, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 11521 Athens, Greece
Gerasimina-Theodora Zapanti: Research Unit of Environmental Education & Communication, Department of Public & Community Health, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 11521 Athens, Greece
Nikolaos Klioumis: Research Unit of Environmental Education & Communication, Department of Public & Community Health, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 11521 Athens, Greece
Panagiotis-Rafail Karaevangelou: Research Unit of Environmental Education & Communication, Department of Public & Community Health, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 11521 Athens, Greece
Constantina Skanavis: Research Unit of Environmental Education & Communication, Department of Public & Community Health, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 11521 Athens, Greece

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 11, 1-21

Abstract: This study investigates the relationship between climate change, urban greening, and health perceptions among university students within higher education. Grounded in environmental psychology and sustainability science, it explores how well-being is shaped by climate–health awareness, eco-anxiety, and perceived access to urban green spaces. A mixed-methods approach was employed, using structured questionnaires to assess cognitive, emotional, and behavioral responses to climate change and sustainability. The findings indicate a high awareness of the health impacts of climate change, especially concerning mental well-being. Urban green spaces were recognized as positively influencing emotional resilience, physical activity, and environmental quality. However, despite this awareness, limited engagement in sustainability-oriented behaviors was identified, indicating an action gap. The study suggests the creation of a Climate Health Assessment Indicator to evaluate climate–health literacy and behavioral readiness among academic populations systematically. It also emphasizes integrating identity-based interventions into educational frameworks to support the transition from awareness to sustainable action. Positioned within the broader framework of the Sustainable Development Goals—particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption), and SDG 13 (Climate Action)—this research contributes to the interdisciplinary discourse on integrating sustainability and human well-being in academic and urban contexts.

Keywords: climate change; urban greening; health perceptions; higher education; Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); eco-anxiety; public health (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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