INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR INNOVATIVE RESEARCH IN MULTIDISCIPLINARY FIELD

Abstract: Environmental degradation, climate change, and unsustainable use of natural resources have emerged as critical global and national concerns, underscoring the need for environmental awareness from an early age. Environmental Education (EE) plays a vital role in fostering knowledge, values, attitudes, and skills necessary for responsible environmental behaviour. In the Indian context, primary education provides a crucial foundation for inculcating environmental sensitivity among young learners. This theoretical research paper examines the significance, scope, and strategies for integrating Environmental Education into the primary school curriculum in India. Drawing upon existing literature, educational policies, and curriculum frameworks, the paper explores the conceptual foundations of Environmental Education, its relevance in primary schooling, and its alignment with national educational goals such as sustainable development. It also analyses current curricular practices, highlights challenges in implementation—including curriculum overload, teacher preparedness, and resource constraints—and emphasizes the role of teachers in effective integration. The paper suggests pedagogical approaches such as experiential learning, interdisciplinary teaching, and the use of local environmental contexts to enhance learning outcomes. The study concludes that systematic integration of Environmental Education at the primary level is essential for developing environmentally responsible citizens and recommends policy support, teacher training, and curriculum reform to strengthen environmental learning in Indian schools.