May Anne E. Mudlong | Cathlea N. Tongco | Rosmalen L. Rosell |
May 14, 2026
Climate change is a global threat to a country's environment, health, and economy. Socioeconomic factors influence perspectives about the issue, making education crucial in promoting sustainable development. This qualitative hermeneutic phenomenological study examined middle school students' perspectives on climate change. The participants consisted of two groups of students from different socioeconomic backgrounds: 15 students from the L group and 15 students from the N group. A survey, an illustration activity, and focus group discussions were used in data gathering. The following were the themes that emerged in the study: (1) cognizance of climate change and its consequences, (2) climate change exacerbates poverty, (3) climate change concerns everyone on diverse levels, and (4) climate change education develops compassion, altruism, and empowerment. Climate change education is one approach to address the Sustainable Development Goals by allowing educational institutions to foster understanding with several institutions, combined with scientific training and community development programs.