Anna Mravcová
Slovak Academy of Sciences

The Importance of Environmental Citizenship in Addressing Current Challenges and Achieving Sustainability

Humanity is facing escalating global challenges, many of which stem from human activity and a growing disconnection between nature and culture. As a dominant force shaping environmental change, humans have led the planet into a new era—often referred to as the Anthropocene—where the consequences of unsustainable practices have become undeniable. Despite international efforts, environmental problems continue to intensify, underscoring the urgent need for systemic change. In this context, environmental citizenship emerges as a crucial framework for achieving sustainability. It is not only about awareness but also about a proactive commitment to responsible behaviour, fostering a deeper relationship between individuals, society, and the environment. Environmental issues are among the most pressing global challenges, manifesting in an ever-deepening environmental crisis. Natural resources are being depleted, and the planet’s capacity to absorb pollution has been exceeded. The limits of nature’s resilience have already been reached, and human intervention is the only way to mitigate further damage. Environmental citizenship provides a pathway to change, as it shifts the focus from passive concern to active engagement. It encourages individuals and communities to take responsibility for their impact, translating environmental awareness into concrete actions that support long-term sustainability. Without widespread adoption of environmental citizenship, any attempts to combat environmental degradation will remain inadequate. This lecture will explore the significance of environmental citizenship by addressing key themes:
  • Sustainable development and environmental sustainability – Understanding the role of the environmental pillar in global sustainability efforts,
  • The current environmental crisis – Analysing the root causes, consequences, and urgency of the problem,
  • Environmental citizenship as a possibility for change – Defining its principles, exploring its individual and collective dimensions, and identifying the opportunities and challenges associated with its implementation,
  • The impact of environmental citizenship – Evaluating how it can address environmental crisis and contribute to resolving broader global conflicts.
The concept of environmental citizenship fundamentally redefines the relationship between humans and nature. It emphasizes that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility—one that extends beyond governments and corporations to include individuals. Environmental citizenship requires integrating sustainability into everyday decisions, ensuring that personal and collective actions contribute to the greater good. It is not just about adjusting behaviours but also about fostering a culture of environmental responsibility, where ecological considerations become central to policymaking, business strategies, and lifestyle choices. A critical aspect of environmental citizenship is the recognition of environmental rights and responsibilities. Everyone should have equal access to environmental benefits while also acknowledging their duty to protect ecosystems for future generations. This shift in perspective requires moving beyond immediate self-interest to prioritize the well-being of the broader community. Environmentally conscious citizens play a key role in reducing ecological harm, advocating for sustainable policies, and fostering resilience in the face of environmental challenges. In conclusion, this lecture argues that environmental citizenship is not merely a theoretical concept but a transformative force with the potential to reshape societal behaviours and influence political decisions. By fostering environmental awareness, responsibility, and proactive engagement, environmental citizenship provides a path toward sustainability—one that is essential for ensuring the survival of both humanity and the ecosystems upon which we depend.