Abstract:

The environmental problem is a basic issue that has been part of the curricular projects of Biology and Geology in the latest Spanish educational laws. The implementation of content related to human intervention in ecosystems can be effective from local contexts, favouring experience, reflection and action in favour of the environment. An observational descriptive study was carried out to analyse the ideas of students during 2005, 2008 and 2018 before a refinery project in Tierra de Barros (Badajoz) prepared in 2005 and rejected by the Ministry of Industry (Official Spanish Bulletin (BOE) of 6 April 2016). The sample object of the study constituted by 225 students aged 16 to 18 years old was obtained through intentional or convenience non-probability sampling at four school centres. With this work, it is proposed to address environmental problems in their historical context to explore the pillars of Environmental Education.

Keywords:

Science education, Environmental education, Environmental impact, Villafranca de los Barros (Badajoz), refinery.