Contribuindo para a conscientização ambiental de alunos do ensino médio de escolas estaduais: reciclagem do óleo de cozinha

Abstract

The increasing environmental problems reflects the need to change human behavior. Some are unknown by the Brazilian population, like the consequences of incorrect disposal of cooking oil residue in the environment. Man´s relationship with nature needs to improve, for this, it is necessary to disseminate Environmental Education to the society, especially at school. This present study aims to develop activities related to Environmental Education with high school students from two public schools in the RN, describing sustainability concepts and applying workshops about recycling residual cooking oil transforming into soap. Data were obtained by application of two questionnaires: Prior Knowledge (QCP) and Verification of Learning (QVA) applied before and after the discussions and workshops, respectively. Analyses of the questionnaires showed that, on average: 68% described correctly recycling and reusing in the QCP, while 76% correctly defined these concepts in the QVA. 88% answered that didn't know the consequences of the incorrect disposal of cooking oil in the environment, but after discussion 87% were able to understand this. 50% replied that didn't know that cooking oil is a recyclable waste and 58% that oils used in their house are incorrectly disposed in the sink, in the trash, or on the soil. 88% of students didn´t know collect points for residual cooking oil at Natal. The results emphasize the need to discuss these concepts in society and at school through Environmental Education.