Minds and Megawatts: University Students’ Engagement with Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Practices

Universities play a significant role in fostering energy efficiency and sustainability habits among the younger generation. As centres of knowledge and innovation, they are uniquely positioned to influence the attitudes and behaviours of future leaders. Studies measuring the effectiveness of sustainability-based educational interventions at higher-level institutions, whether they are curriculum-oriented Chen et al (2024); Zin et al (2023); Mohamed et al (2024) or campus-focused initiatives (Dagiliute et al., 2018; Jehtae et al., 2021; Ribeiro et al., (2021), have largely indicated that university undergraduates' level of sustainability knowledge is at low to moderate levels, with limited adoption of the practice. This paper presents a pilot study conducted to measure university students' knowledge, behaviours, and self-efficacy towards energy efficiency and sustainability practices. The sample involved 79 students from one of the faculties at the Universiti Teknologi MARA Puncak Alam Campus. The findings reveal that students' knowledge of energy efficiency and sustainability was at a foundational level. Although the students demonstrated safety consciousness and valued sustainability practice, they were unwilling to sacrifice convenience for energy-saving behaviours, with minimal involvement in collective sustainability efforts. Students were generally confident in their ability to integrate sustainable practices into their lives; however, their consistency might waver under time constraints and competing priorities. The findings also suggest that students recognized the importance of advocacy for energy efficiency and sustainability initiatives. They, however, may lack the confidence to champion these causes against potential social barriers. The study emphasizes the need for integrating sustainability-focused curricula, fostering peer-led initiatives, and providing support structures and networks within the campus. These endeavours will assist in developing a community of practice that encourages continuous engagement and support towards energy efficiency and sustainability practices.