Environmental Awareness in China : in the Case of Generation Y in Chongqing

Currently, the main challenge for China is to balance a strategy of continued economic growth with environmental protection. Effectively addressing environmental problems such as pollution in the air and water, atmosphere depletion and loss of biodiversity requires international and interdisciplinary cooperation. This study discusses findings from a regional survey of students that explores perceptions of China’s environment and development issues. The Chongqing survey measures students’ assessments of the comparative urgency of various Chinese environmental issues. Results will help illustrate attitudes towards the balance between environmental protection and economic growth. One aspect of the survey relates to perceptions of current bureaucratic environmental protection efforts. It is vital to better understand students’ views on Chinese social development and the degree to which they currently prioritize environmental degradation relative to other important issues. After gauging the current situation, it is possible to have an effect on attitudes, values and behaviours. A critical mass of support has the best chance of slowing negative trends of environment degradation and damage.