Green Guardianship: Foshan's Paradigm of Environmental Education, Behavior Change, and Regional Sustainability in the Greater Bay Area

Keywords: Behavior Change, Environmental Education, Environmental Responsibility, Green Initiatives, Knowledge Sharing, Public Awareness, Regional Cooperation, Sustainability, Sustainable Development

Foshan, a key city in the Greater Bay Area, has been at the forefront of environmental protection and sustainable development initiatives. Through its comprehensive approach to environmental education and awareness, Foshan has demonstrated its commitment to fostering a greener future for the region. This section explores the various strategies employed by Foshan to promote environmental responsibility and sustainable behaviours among its citizens and the broader impact of these efforts on regional integration within the Greater Bay Area.

One of the primary strategies utilized by Foshan is the implementation of public awareness campaigns. These campaigns aim to educate the local community about environmental challenges and encourage sustainable practices. Empirical evidence from Li et al. (2019) highlights the effectiveness of such campaigns in promoting pro-environmental behaviours, such as recycling and reducing energy consumption. Statistical data from the Foshan Environmental Protection Bureau further supports this, showing a significant increase in public participation in environmental initiatives following the launch of awareness campaigns.

In addition to public awareness efforts, Foshan has strongly emphasized green education in schools. By integrating environmental topics into the curriculum, Foshan aims to instil environmental values and knowledge among the younger generation. Studies by Wang and Zhang (2020) demonstrate that participation in green education programs leads to positive changes in students' attitudes toward the environment. Moreover, statistical analysis reveals that students who received environmental education reported a greater awareness of environmental issues than those who did not.

Foshan's commitment to environmental education extends beyond formal educational settings. The city has implemented various knowledge-sharing initiatives, such as community programs, digital platforms, and collaborative networks, to disseminate information about sustainable practices and foster a culture of environmental stewardship. These efforts have yielded tangible results, with empirical case studies showing significant waste generation reductions and resource efficiency improvements among participating households and businesses (Chen et al., 2023; Foshan Chamber of Commerce, 2021).

The impact of Foshan's environmental education and awareness initiatives extends beyond the city itself. These efforts contribute to regional integration and sustainable development within the Greater Bay Area. Studies by Wong et al. (2020) demonstrate that cities with joint environmental education programs experience greater alignment in sustainable practices. Furthermore, statistical data from the GBA Environmental Protection Agency indicates that regions with integrated environmental education strategies have seen collective reductions in carbon emissions.

Foshan's multifaceted approach to environmental education and awareness has positioned the city as a green guardian within the Greater Bay Area. Foshan is paving the way for a more environmentally responsible and sustainable future by fostering sustainable behaviours among its citizens and promoting regional integration. The empirical evidence, statistical data, and illustrative examples presented in this section underscore the effectiveness of Foshan's strategies and highlight the importance of continued investment in environmental education for the betterment of the region.

A. Foshan's environmental education programs

1. Public awareness campaigns

Foshan, a key city in the Greater Bay Area, has been actively promoting environmental education and raising public awareness of sustainability issues. One of the primary strategies employed by Foshan is the implementation of public awareness campaigns. These campaigns aim to educate the local community about environmental challenges, encourage sustainable behaviours, and foster a sense of environmental responsibility among residents.

Empirical evidence from a study by Li et al. (2019) highlights the effectiveness of public awareness campaigns in promoting environmental awareness and behavioural change. The study found that residents exposed to environmental education programs and campaigns were likelier to engage in pro-environmental behaviours such as recycling, reducing energy consumption, and using public transportation.

In addition to academic research, statistical data from the Foshan Environmental Protection Bureau shows a significant increase in public participation in environmental initiatives following the implementation of public awareness campaigns. For example, the number of residents participating in community clean-up events and recycling programs has steadily increased over the past few years, indicating a growing interest and engagement in environmental protection efforts.

To further illustrate the impact of public awareness campaigns, a comparative analysis of environmental indicators before and after the launch of these initiatives can be seen in Table 1 below:

Table 1: Environmental Indicators Before and After Public Awareness Campaigns

Indicator Before Campaigns After Campaigns

Recycling Rate (%) 30% 45%

Community Clean-up Events 2 per month 5 per month

Public Transportation Usage 20% 35%

The data presented in Table 1 highlights the significant impact of public awareness campaigns on environmental indicators in Foshan. These campaigns serve as a crucial aspect of Foshan's environmental education programs, aiming to educate the community about sustainability issues and promote eco-friendly practices. The analysis of the environmental indicators before and after the public awareness campaigns reveals notable improvements in the Recycling Rate, Community Clean-up Events, and Public Transportation Usage, respectively. These changes demonstrate the effectiveness of public awareness campaigns in driving behavioral change and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility among Foshan residents. The data indicates a growing awareness and participation in environmental initiatives, showcasing the success of these campaigns in promoting sustainable behaviors and enhancing the overall environmental health of the region.

Figure 1: Recycling Rates Before and After Public Awareness Campaigns

Figure 1 presents a graphical representation of the increase in recycling rates before and after implementing public awareness campaigns in Foshan.

These empirical findings and statistical data demonstrate the positive impact of public awareness campaigns on promoting environmental education and sustainable behaviours in Foshan. By engaging the community through targeted campaigns, Foshan has raised awareness about environmental issues and inspired residents to act towards a more sustainable future.

2. Green education in schools

In Foshan's commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development in the Greater Bay Area, implementing green education programs in schools is crucial in fostering environmental awareness and sustainability practices among the younger generation. This section will critically analyze the green education initiatives in Foshan's schools, examining their impact on students and the broader community.

Green education in schools in Foshan is designed to instil environmental values, knowledge, and skills among students, empowering them to become environmentally responsible citizens. According to Li et al. (2018), integrating environmental education into the school curriculum helps raise students' awareness of environmental issues and encourages them to adopt sustainable behaviours. Through a structured curriculum that includes topics such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, and waste management, students in Foshan are equipped with the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions regarding environmental protection.

Moreover, empirical evidence from a study by Wang and Zhang (2020) demonstrates that participation in green education programs leads to positive changes in students' attitudes toward the environment. By engaging in hands-on activities such as tree planting, recycling projects, and environmental clean-up campaigns, students develop a sense of environmental stewardship and actively contribute to conserving natural resources.

To further illustrate the impact of green education in Foshan's schools, a statistical analysis of student surveys conducted by the Foshan Environmental Protection Bureau reveals that 85% of students who participated in environmental education programs reported a greater awareness of environmental issues, compared to only 45% of students who did not receive such education. This data highlights the effectiveness of integrating green education into the school curriculum to enhance environmental awareness among students.

Table 2: Impact of Green Education Programs on Student Awareness

Group Increased Awareness of Environmental Issues (%)

Participants 85

Non-participants 45

The analysis of Table 2 examines the impact of green education programs in schools on student awareness of environmental issues in Foshan. These initiatives play a vital role in cultivating environmental consciousness and promoting sustainable practices among the youth, contributing to the city's commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development in the Greater Bay Area.

The integration of green education programs in Foshan's schools has significantly contributed to raising students' awareness of environmental issues, shaping their attitudes towards sustainability, and fostering a sense of environmental stewardship. By instilling environmental values, knowledge, and skills in the younger generation, Foshan is actively nurturing a community of environmentally conscious individuals poised to champion environmental protection and sustainable practices in the region.

Figure 2: Percentage of Students Reporting Increased Awareness of Environmental Issues

The diagram for Figure 2 visually represents the percentage of students reporting increased awareness of environmental issues as a result of green education programs in Foshan's schools, showcasing the positive impact of these initiatives on enhancing environmental awareness and promoting sustainable practices among students.

In addition to quantitative data, qualitative insights from interviews with teachers and students in Foshan provide a deeper understanding of the transformative effects of green education. Teachers report that students who engage in environmental activities demonstrate greater empathy towards nature and express a strong responsibility toward protecting the environment. Furthermore, students express a heightened sense of environmental consciousness and a commitment to adopting sustainable practices daily.

Overall, integrating green education programs in Foshan's schools catalyzes the promotion of environmental awareness and sustainable development in the Greater Bay Area. By nurturing a generation of environmentally conscious individuals, Foshan is laying the foundation for a more sustainable future and positioning itself as a leading advocate for environmental protection in the region.

B. Fostering environmental responsibility

1. Knowledge sharing

Environmental education and awareness are pivotal in fostering a sense of environmental responsibility among Foshan's citizens. Knowledge sharing is a critical component of this educational framework, as it helps disseminate information about sustainable practices, environmental policies, and the importance of ecological preservation. This section explores the mechanisms and impacts of knowledge sharing in Foshan's environmental strategy.

Mechanisms of Knowledge Sharing

Knowledge sharing in Foshan is facilitated through various channels, including educational institutions, community programs, digital platforms, and public awareness campaigns. Educational institutions, from primary schools to universities, incorporate environmental science into their curricula. According to a report by the Guangdong Department of Education (2022), over 90% of schools in Foshan include environmental topics in their lessons, emphasizing pollution control, waste management, and biodiversity conservation.

Community programs are crucial in extending environmental education beyond formal education settings. These programs often involve workshops, seminars, and volunteer activities that engage citizens in hands-on learning experiences. A case study by Wu et al. (2021) highlighted the success of the "Green Community Initiative," which saw a 25% increase in recycling rates in participating neighbourhoods.

Digital platforms have become increasingly significant in knowledge dissemination. The Foshan Environmental Protection Bureau (2023) has developed an interactive website and mobile application that provides resources on sustainable practices, environmental laws, and real-time air and water quality data. Social media campaigns amplify these efforts by reaching a broader audience and encouraging public participation.

Impact of Knowledge Sharing

The impact of knowledge sharing on environmental responsibility in Foshan can be measured through various indicators, such as changes in public behaviour, policy compliance, and community engagement in environmental activities. A survey conducted by the Foshan Municipal Government (2022) revealed that 78% of respondents felt more informed about environmental issues due to local knowledge-sharing initiatives. This heightened awareness translates into practical actions; for instance, household participation in recycling programs has increased by 40% over the past five years (Zhang, 2023).

Moreover, knowledge sharing has fostered a culture of environmental stewardship among younger generations. According to Lin et al. (2022), students who received comprehensive environmental education were more likely to engage in eco-friendly behaviours, such as reducing plastic use and supporting conservation efforts. These findings underscore the long-term benefits of educational initiatives in shaping sustainable communities.

Several illustrative instances highlight the effectiveness of Foshan's knowledge-sharing initiatives. The Eco-Schools Program, launched in 2018, integrates environmental education into schools' daily activities. This program has reached over 100,000 students and has been credited with significant improvements in energy conservation and waste reduction within participating schools (Li, 2020).

Another notable example is the "Green Enterprises Network," a collaborative platform for businesses to share best practices and innovations in sustainability. Foshan companies have reduced their carbon footprints by participating in this network and adopting circular economy principles. A report by the Foshan Chamber of Commerce (2021) indicated that member companies saw a 15% reduction in waste generation and a 20% increase in resource efficiency.

Empirical case studies provide further evidence of the positive outcomes of knowledge sharing. One such study by Chen et al. (2023) examined the impact of community-led environmental workshops on waste management practices in Foshan. The study found that households participating in these workshops reduced their waste output by 30% and increased their composting activities by 50%, demonstrating the practical benefits of grassroots education initiatives.

Historically, knowledge sharing has been a cornerstone of successful environmental movements worldwide. Theories such as the Diffusion of Innovations (Rogers, 2003) and Social Learning Theory (Bandura, 1977) provide frameworks for understanding how information dissemination influences public behaviour and social norms. These theories suggest that effective knowledge sharing can accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices by enhancing public understanding and fostering peer-to-peer learning.

Table 3: Impact of Knowledge Sharing Initiatives on Environmental Responsibility Indicators in Foshan

Indicator Pre-Initiative (2018) Post-Initiative (2023) Percentage Change

School Participation in Eco-Programs 60% 90% 50%

Household Recycling Participation 35% 75% 40%

Student Engagement in Eco-Friendly Acts 50% 85% 35%

Business Resource Efficiency Increase N/A 20% N/A

Table 3 provides insights into the impact of knowledge sharing initiatives on environmental responsibility indicators in Foshan. These initiatives play a crucial role in disseminating information about sustainable practices, environmental policies, and ecological preservation, aiming to foster environmental awareness and sustainability practices among the residents. The data reveals a remarkable improvement in environmental responsibility indicators across schools, households, students, and businesses in Foshan following the implementation of knowledge-sharing initiatives.

Knowledge sharing initiatives in Foshan have played a pivotal role in fostering environmental responsibility and sustainable development by enhancing awareness, promoting eco-friendly behaviors, and encouraging community engagement. Through collaboration with educational institutions, community programs, digital platforms, and public campaigns, Foshan has successfully empowered its citizens to adopt environmentally responsible practices, leading to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious community. The evidence presented underscores the value of knowledge sharing in driving positive environmental outcomes and emphasizes the importance of continued investment in environmental education initiatives.

Figure 3: Changes in Environmental Responsibility Indicators in Foshan (2018-2023)

The diagram for Figure 3 visually represents the changes in environmental responsibility indicators in Foshan over the years, showcasing the impact of knowledge-sharing initiatives on promoting environmental awareness, sustainable practices, and community engagement.

In conclusion, knowledge sharing in Foshan is pivotal in fostering environmental responsibility and promoting sustainable development. By leveraging educational institutions, community programs, digital platforms, and public campaigns, Foshan has successfully enhanced environmental awareness and encouraged eco-friendly behaviours among its citizens. The empirical evidence and illustrative instances presented in this section demonstrate the tangible benefits of these initiatives and underscore the importance of continued investment in environmental education.

2. Behavior change

Behaviour change is a fundamental aspect of fostering environmental responsibility among the citizens of Foshan. By influencing individual actions and choices, educational initiatives can drive sustainable practices and contribute to the overall environmental health of the region. This section examines the mechanisms, impacts, and outcomes of behaviour change strategies in Foshan's environmental education framework.

Mechanisms of Behavior Change

A combination of individual factors, social norms, and environmental cues often influences behaviour change in the context of environmental responsibility. The Theory of Planned Behavior (Ajzen, 1991) suggests that an individual's intention to engage in a behaviour is influenced by their attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control. In Foshan, behaviour change strategies leverage these psychological mechanisms to promote eco-friendly actions.

Community-based programs promote behaviour change by creating a supportive environment for sustainable practices. For instance, the "Green Neighbors Initiative" encourages residents to form eco-conscious communities to collectively address waste management, energy conservation, and green infrastructure projects (Yuan et al., 2020). By fostering a sense of social responsibility and shared values, these initiatives motivate individuals to adopt environmentally friendly behaviours.

In addition, new technologies and smart devices are increasingly utilized to nudge behaviour change toward sustainability. Smart meters, energy-efficient appliances, and recycling apps provide real-time feedback and incentives for eco-friendly actions. A study by Liu and Chen (2021) demonstrated that households in Foshan equipped with intelligent meters reduced their electricity consumption by 15% on average, highlighting the effectiveness of technology-enabled behaviour change interventions.

Impact of Behavior Change

The impact of behaviour change on environmental responsibility in Foshan can be observed through various outcomes, including resource conservation, pollution reduction, and community engagement. Empirical studies have shown that targeted behaviour change interventions lead to tangible improvements in environmental indicators. For example, a study by Wang et al. (2022) found that public awareness campaigns on water conservation resulted in a 20% decrease in water usage among households in Foshan.

Moreover, behaviour change initiatives contribute to cultivating pro-environmental attitudes and values among citizens. Longitudinal studies have indicated that individuals actively participating in environmental programs demonstrate greater empathy towards nature, stronger intentions to protect the environment, and a sense of personal responsibility in promoting sustainability (Cheng & Zhang, 2021).

Illustrative instances of successful behaviour change initiatives in Foshan provide concrete evidence of the effectiveness of these strategies. The "Green Dining Program," launched in partnership with local restaurants, encouraged adopting sustainable food practices, such as reducing food waste, sourcing locally, and promoting plant-based options. As a result, participating restaurants reported a 30% decrease in food waste and a 25% increase in demand for vegetarian dishes (Tan et al., 2019).

Another noteworthy example is the "Eco-Friendly Transportation Campaign," which incentivized citizens to use public transport, bicycles, and electric vehicles as alternatives to private cars. Analysis by the Foshan Transport Authority (2020) indicated a 10% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector following the campaign's implementation.

Empirical case studies provide valuable insights into the behavioural outcomes of environmental education programs in Foshan. For instance, a study by Zhao et al. (2023) evaluated the impact of eco-driving workshops on vehicle emissions and fuel efficiency. The results showed that drivers who underwent eco-driving training reduced their carbon emissions by 12% and improved their fuel economy by 15%, highlighting the potential for behaviour change interventions to drive sustainable transportation practices.

Historical occurrences of successful behaviour change initiatives in the environmental domain offer valuable lessons for contemporary strategies. The Dual-Process Model of Environmental Behavior (Kollmuss & Agyeman, 2002) posits that conscious, reflective processes and automatic, habitual responses influence behaviour change. By understanding these dual pathways, educators in Foshan can design interventions that target cognitive decision-making and ingrained behaviours to foster lasting change.

Table 4: Behavior Change Indicators in Foshan (2019-2023)

Indicator Pre-Intervention (2019) Post-Intervention (2023) Change (%)

Water Usage Reduction among Households 100 liters/day 80 liters/day -20%

Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Transportation 1000 tons/year 900 tons/year -10%

Fuel Efficiency Improvement with Eco-Driving 10 miles/gallon 11.5 miles/gallon 15%

The data in Table 4 demonstrates that the behavior change strategies implemented in Foshan have had a substantial impact on environmental responsibility and sustainability practices. Through the integration of psychological mechanisms, community engagement, technological innovations, and targeted interventions, Foshan has effectively shaped individual actions towards eco-friendly behaviors. The impact of these behavior change initiatives is clearly visible through tangible enhancements in environmental indicators like resource conservation, pollution reduction, and community engagement.

Figure 4: Environmental Impact of Behavior Change Programs in Foshan

The diagram for Figure 4 visually represents the environmental impact of behavior change programs in Foshan, showcasing how these initiatives have influenced individual actions towards eco-friendly behaviors and contributed to environmental responsibility and sustainability practices in the region.

In conclusion, behaviour change strategies are vital in enhancing Foshan's environmental responsibility and sustainability practices. By leveraging psychological theories, community engagement, technology, and targeted interventions, Foshan has successfully influenced individual actions toward eco-friendly behaviours. The empirical evidence, case studies, and theoretical frameworks discussed in this section underscore the importance of behaviour change in shaping a greener future for the Greater Bay Area.

C. Impact on sustainable behaviours

1. Within Foshan

Environmental education and awareness are crucial in fostering sustainable behaviours within Foshan. Individuals are more likely to engage in environmentally friendly practices by increasing knowledge and understanding of environmental issues.

Research by Chen and Li (2018) highlights the positive impact of environmental education on promoting sustainable behaviours among residents in Chinese cities. The study found that individuals who received environmental education were more likely to adopt energy-saving habits and reduce waste production. This indicates that educational initiatives can effectively influence behaviour change toward sustainability.

Furthermore, empirical evidence from a survey conducted by the Foshan Municipal Government in 2020 revealed that 70% of respondents who had participated in environmental education programs reported making changes to their daily habits to reduce their environmental impact. This data underscores the significant influence of educational efforts on promoting sustainable behaviours within the city.

In addition to formal education programs, community engagement initiatives have also played a key role in driving sustainable behaviours in Foshan. For example, establishing neighbourhood recycling programs led to a 20% increase in household recycling rates within a year, as the Foshan Environmental Protection Bureau reported.

Figure 5: Impact of Environmental Education on Sustainable Behaviors in Foshan

Figure 5 illustrates the impact of environmental education on sustainable behaviours in Foshan based on data collected from various educational programs and community initiatives.

Moreover, case studies of successful sustainability initiatives in Foshan, such as implementing green transportation policies and eco-friendly urban planning projects, demonstrate the tangible outcomes of environmental education and awareness campaigns. These examples showcase how education can empower individuals to make informed choices, contributing to sustainable development.

In conclusion, environmental education and awareness significantly impact the promotion of sustainable behaviours within Foshan. By providing individuals with the knowledge and skills to address environmental challenges, educational initiatives contribute to building a greener and more sustainable future for the Greater Bay Area.

2. Regional integration in the GBA

One key aspect of environmental education and awareness's impact on sustainable behaviours in Foshan is its contribution to regional integration within the Greater Bay Area (GBA). Environmental education initiatives influence individual behaviours and foster collaboration and coordination among regional cities toward sustainable development goals.

Empirical evidence from a study by Wong et al. (2020) demonstrated that cities within the GBA implementing joint environmental education programs experienced greater alignment in sustainable practices. For instance, establishing a regional environmental education task force involving Foshan, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen led to increased knowledge sharing and best practice dissemination, resulting in more cohesive sustainability efforts across the region.

Moreover, statistical data from the Foshan Municipal GBA Environmental Protection Agency(2023) indicated that regions with integrated environmental education strategies, such as cross-border workshops and joint awareness campaigns, saw a 15% reduction in carbon emissions collectively within the GBA over five years. This data underscores the positive impact of regional integration in environmental education on achieving tangible environmental outcomes.

Table 5: Impact of Regional Integration on Sustainability Indicators in the GBA

Sustainability Indicator Impact of Regional Integration

Carbon Emissions Reduction 15%

Waste Management Efficiency Improved coordination

Renewable Energy Adoption Cross-city knowledge sharing

Table 5 presents a summary of crucial sustainability indicators influenced by regional integration in environmental education initiatives across the GBA.

Furthermore, theoretical frameworks such as the Triple Helix innovation model emphasize the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and academia in driving sustainable development. Environmental education programs that promote cross-sector partnerships and knowledge exchange align with this framework, leading to enhanced regional integration for sustainability.

Collaborative projects such as joint pollution control measures shared green infrastructure development and coordinated biodiversity conservation efforts across GBA cities illustrate successful regional integration through environmental education. These initiatives benefit individual communities and contribute to the region's environmental well-being.

In conclusion, the impact of environmental education and awareness of sustainable behaviours extends to regional integration within the Greater Bay Area, facilitating coordinated efforts towards environmental protection and sustainable development.

Summary

Foshan, a key city in the Greater Bay Area (GBA), has actively promoted environmental education and awareness to foster sustainable behaviors among its residents. Public awareness campaigns have effectively encouraged pro-environmental practices, such as recycling, energy conservation, and public transportation (Li et al., 2019). Statistical data from the Foshan Environmental Protection Bureau(2023a) shows increased public participation in environmental initiatives following these campaigns. Table 1 demonstrates the positive impact of public awareness campaigns on recycling rates, community clean-up events, and public transportation usage in Foshan.

Green education programs in schools also play a crucial role in raising environmental awareness among the younger generation. By integrating environmental topics into the curriculum and engaging students in hands-on activities, these programs have successfully enhanced students' knowledge and attitudes towards sustainability (Li et al., 2018; Wang & Zhang, 2020). Surveys conducted by the Foshan Environmental Protection Bureau revealed that 85% of students who participated in environmental education programs reported greater awareness of environmental issues compared to only 45% of non-participants (Table 2).

Knowledge-sharing initiatives, such as community programs, digital platforms, and public campaigns, have further contributed to fostering environmental responsibility in Foshan. These efforts have increased recycling rates, reduced waste generation, and improved resource efficiency among households and businesses (Zhang, 2023; Foshan Chamber of Commerce, 2021). Behavior change strategies, including community-based programs and technology-enabled interventions, have also proven effective in promoting sustainable practices. For instance, public awareness campaigns on water conservation resulted in a 20% decrease in water usage among households in Foshan (Wang et al., 2022).

The impact of environmental education and awareness extends beyond Foshan to regional integration within the GBA. Joint environmental education programs and collaborative sustainability efforts have led to increased knowledge sharing, best practice dissemination, and reduced regional carbon emissions (Wong et al., 2020; GBA Agency, 2023). Table 5 presents the positive impact of regional integration on crucial sustainability indicators in the GBA.

In conclusion, environmental education and awareness have significantly promoted sustainable behaviors in Foshan and fostered regional integration within the Greater Bay Area. Through public awareness campaigns, green education in schools, knowledge-sharing initiatives, and behavior change strategies, Foshan has successfully empowered its residents to adopt environmentally friendly practices and contribute to the region's collective sustainability goals.

Summary

Foshan, a key city in the Greater Bay Area (GBA), has actively promoted environmental education and awareness to foster sustainable behaviours among its residents. Public awareness campaigns have effectively encouraged pro-environmental practices, such as recycling, energy conservation, and public transportation (Li et al., 2019). Statistical data from the Foshan Environmental Protection Bureau shows increased public participation in environmental initiatives following these campaigns. Table 1 demonstrates the positive impact of public awareness campaigns on recycling rates, community clean-up events, and public transportation usage in Foshan.

Green education programs in schools also play a crucial role in raising environmental awareness among the younger generation. By integrating environmental topics into the curriculum and engaging students in hands-on activities, these programs have successfully enhanced students' knowledge and attitudes towards sustainability (Li et al., 2018; Wang & Zhang, 2020). Surveys conducted by the Foshan Environmental Protection Bureau revealed that 85% of students who participated in environmental education programs reported greater awareness of environmental issues than only 45% of non-participants (Table 2).

Knowledge-sharing initiatives, such as community programs, digital platforms, and public campaigns, have further contributed to fostering environmental responsibility in Foshan. These efforts have increased recycling rates, reduced waste generation, and improved resource efficiency among households and businesses (Zhang, 2023; Foshan Chamber of Commerce, 2021). Behaviour change strategies, including community-based programs and technology-enabled interventions, have also proven effective in promoting sustainable practices. For instance, public awareness campaigns on water conservation resulted in a 20% decrease in water usage among households in Foshan (Wang et al., 2022).

The impact of environmental education and awareness extends beyond Foshan to regional integration within the GBA. Joint environmental education programs and collaborative sustainability efforts have led to increased knowledge sharing, best practice dissemination, and reduced regional carbon emissions (Wong et al., 2020; GBA Agency). Table 5 presents the positive impact of regional integration on crucial sustainability indicators in the GBA.

In conclusion, environmental education and awareness have promoted sustainable behaviours in Foshan and fostered regional integration within the Greater Bay Area. Through public awareness campaigns, green education in schools, knowledge-sharing initiatives, and behaviour change strategies, Foshan has successfully empowered its residents to adopt environmentally friendly practices and contribute to the region's collective sustainability goals.

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