Can you hear me? Young children’s understanding of environmental issues

Abstract

This study examines young children’s understanding of environmental issues in Malta. Informed by a socio-cultural perspective and adopting a qualitative methodology, this case study was conducted with 10 children (ages 3–7). The data were obtained through children’s interpretation of photographs depicting environmental issues. The results showed that young children possess some understanding of environmental issues and they could talk about them, indicating that environmental understanding starts in early childhood. Some children also held misconceptions about environmental issues. In light of these findings, it can be argued that starting environmental learning in early child-hood is important for the achievement of a sustainable future.