Abstract:

In times of multiple environmental problems it is obvious that the most important consequences of air pollution are the destruction or degradation of ecosystems, the extinction risk of various organisms and the outbreak of various diseases. Therefore, immediate effective solutions are needed to improve the condition of the atmosphere and reduce the greenhouse gas emissions provoked mainly by anthropogenic interferences and less by natural causes. The human factor has so much affected the balance and composition of the atmosphere that it is now not only rare species of animals to be threatened with extinction but also the question of ensuring the living conditions of humans themselves is raised. In this process the global temperature is constantly rising, the greenhouse effect remains, and climate change continues to intensify.

One of the main sources of pollutant gas production is vehicles that emit pollutants, depending on the use and behavior of their users. In order to reduce pollutants, the European Union initially in cooperation with the European automotive and oil industry, promoted the replacement of gasoline-powered with diesel vehicles, an operation which failed for reasons not recognized or merely silenced. Nowadays, with the development of renewable energy technology, the use of fossil fuels for energy production is being reduced. Therefore, to reduce air pollution from vehicles, lithium-ion electric energy storage vehicles or hybrid cars, which have the benefit of reducing emissions and minimizing the use of oil, can be used to drive on hydrogen, which is produced from water with the help of renewable energy resources and is the cleanest of all energy storage, much cleaner than biodiesel, etc. The benefits of promoting these energy technologies are manifold both nationally and internationally. Sustainable Development Education can contribute to understanding this issue through active, experiential, collaborative and group learning strategies by empowering active citizens with the knowledge, honesty and willingness to support and promote the principles of sustainable development.

In this context, the purpose of this study is to investigate the knowledge and views of Rhodes police officers on issues related to traffic and its environmental impact. The research method followed is empirical quantitative, with the questionnaire as research tool. The research took place in September 2019 to a random sample of 113 persons. The results of the analysis of the survey data, show that the participants argue that the greenhouse effect is directly linked to the traffic problem and that the use of renewable energies helps to regulate it. They declare that the implementation of environmentally friendly practices helps to make cities more sustainable with better living conditions. They claim that promoting Traffic Education leads to safer travels for all and results in respect for life itself. Finally, they believe that traffic contributes greatly to air pollution and is linked to a number of health problems.

Keywords:

Education, sustainable development, atmospheric pollution.