Awareness of the Maltese natural environment : a survey

Abstract

A survey on the awareness of the Maltese natural environment, in the form of a written questionnaire, was conducted on 583 Maltese students above the age of thirteen and 205 Maltese adults; between April 1986 and May 1987. The results were analysed for statistical significance. It was found that, on the whole, the Maltese population has a fair knowledge of the Maltese natural environment (global score= 47%). Sex makes no difference on this awareness. People over 20 years of age are more aware of the subject than people under 20 years. Formal education after Secondary school influences positively the level of awareness the Maltese have of their natural environment. Professional and Managerial workers, White-Collar workers and Skilled workers are more aware of the Maltese natural environment than students, Semi-skilled workers and Unskilled workers. People who are not members of an organization and those who belong to Religious societies are less knowledgeable on the Maltese natural environment than members of other societies.