Mangrove (Rhizophora mangle) Knowledge, Environmental Awareness and Conservation Practices for the Development of Strategic Intervention Material (SIM)

Abstract

Degradation of mangrove ecosystems, as important as they are ecologically and socio-economically, is a very critical environmental issue, particularly in coastal areas such as the Philippines. However, local studies on this species and their conservation are very limited, particularly among the coastal communities of Occidental Mindoro, where mangrove forests are deemed palpable. This research sought to measure the extent of knowledge and the level of environmental awareness of Grade 10 students of Iling National High School in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro towards mangroves and to determine how these contribute to their conservation efforts. Anchored on the Knowledge, Awareness, and Practices (KAP) model, the study examined specific domains under each variable of knowledge, environmental awareness and conservation practices. Results indicated that students in general had only rudimentary knowledge in all five domains of mangrove significance, with coastal safety being most familiar. In the same vein, levels of environmental awareness fell under the range of high and conservation actions were practiced at very high levels, with regeneration action being most carried out. Statistical analysis revealed positive but limited link between students' knowledge and conservation practice. On the contrary, strong relationship was found between awareness and practice, indicating the integral interplay of cognitive and affective determinants in promoting pro-environmental conduct. These results emphasize the necessity of incorporating contextualized, localized environmental education within the curriculum. As an output of this study, a Strategic Intervention Material (SIM) was crafted to fill knowledge gaps and dispel misconceptions, and to support conservation attitudes and habits.