The Role of Environmental Education in Enhancing Public Awareness of Ecological Protection in Azerbaijan

Abstract

Environmental education plays a critical role in building public awareness of ecological protection. In Azerbaijan – a country with diverse ecosystems under development pressures – this role is recognized in national laws and initiatives but faces implementation challenges. This article examines Azerbaijan’s policies, programs, and outcomes concerning environmental education and public ecological awareness. Based on a systematic review of legislative texts, national reports, NGO and government programs, and academic studies, we find that Azerbaijan has established a strong legal framework (e.g. a 2002 Law on Ecological Education and a Presidential decree in 2003), integrated environmental topics into school curricula, and launched various youth-focused campaigns. Programs such as biodiversity excursions, eco-clubs, and tree-planting camps engage students in hands-on learning (see Figure 1). However, implementation gaps remain: teaching is often theoretical, teacher training is limited, and rural populations have lower awareness (as noted by Babayeva and the 2009 National Biodiversity Report). Empirical surveys show modest public understanding of issues like ecological footprints. International research confirms that well-designed environmental education significantly improves knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. In Azerbaijan’s context, efforts such as the annual “Day of Biodiversity” and NGO-led eco-initiatives have increased visibility, but systematic evaluation is scarce. This article synthesizes existing literature and data to assess current strengths and weaknesses. We conclude that while Azerbaijan’s government has recognized environmental education’s importance through laws and programs, more emphasis is needed on experiential learning, teacher support, and measurable outreach to ensure that environmental knowledge translates into active public stewardship of the environment.