Environmental literacy of business students in Ghana

Abstract

Purpose

This study examines the multidimensionality of the environmental literacy concept among university business students in Ghana. The study also investigates the relationship between students’ interests in environmental issues and knowledge levels of environment and assesses how these two constructs influence students overall environmental behaviour and actions.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a total of 591 business students from the University of Ghana Business School, the study uses exploratory factor analysis to examine the multidimensionality of environmental literacy concept. A structural equation modelling-based approach was used to examine the relationship among the study constructs.

Findings

Based on the factor analysis results, the study documents that environmental literacy concept can be grouped under four distinct factors (general environmental factors; industry-related factors; environmental assessment factors; and accounting-related factors). The regression results indicate a direct and positive relationship between students’ interest in environmental issues and their environmental literacy level. Also, students’ interest and their knowledge levels of environmental issues were found to be good predictors of actual students’ involvement in activities that promote sustainable environment.

Research limitations/implications

The conclusions of the study are based on only data from one public university, which limits the generalizability of the findings.

Originality/value

The study is unique as it is the first empirical study to investigate environmental literacy levels in higher education in the Ghanaian setting.

Citation

Owusu, G.M.Y., Ossei Kwakye, T., Welbeck, E.E. and Ofori, C.G. (2017), "Environmental literacy of business students in Ghana", International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, Vol. 18 No. 3, pp. 415-435. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSHE-02-2016-0025