Leveraging Digital Technologies for Environmental Literacy among Nigerian Internet Natives

Abstract

The proliferation of the internet and emerging media has transformed the landscape of social action movements, enabling bottom-up transformations and fostering environmental activism. This study examines the challenges and opportunities for promoting environmental literacy among Nigerian internet users aged 18-35 in the digital age. Grounded in technological determinism theory, this study employed the survey method. The population for this study is the Yaba Local Council Development Area in Lagos State. A sample size of 400 internet users was determined for this study using Taro Yamane’s formula. However, to ensure a broad and representative selection of participants, the study employed a random sampling technique. 1,000 individuals were simply selected for potential participation from the total population estimated at 483,600. This more extensive selection accounts for potential non-responses and ensures that at least the calculated sample size (400) was met to explore the role of digital technologies in environmental education. The findings reveal that environmental education plays a crucial role in fostering environmental literacy, critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and informed decision-making. However, the study also highlights the challenges of accurately assessing the impact of digital technologies on environmental movement tactics. To address this, the study recommends enhancing environmental education by providing accurate and trustworthy information on environmental issues and leveraging new media platforms to raise public awareness and concern.