Kastamonu Eğitim Dergisi, vol.26, no.3, pp.813-822, 2018 (Peer-Reviewed Journal)
The aim of this study was to determine the opinions of elementary science teacher candidates in Turkey regarding the collection, separation and recycling of solid wastes. To this end, a questionnaire consisting of two sections was administered to a total of 315 first-year, second-year, third-year, and fourth-year university students enrolled in the department of elementary science teacher education. Based on the study results, it was determined that the elementary science teacher candidates acquired their knowledge regarding the collection, separation and recycling of solid wastes mainly from school and television. It was understood that teacher candidates who recycled solid wastes (other than organic wastes) and who used separate recycling containers for each type of solid waste were generally aware that materials used in packages can be recycled and reutilized. Owing to this awareness, these teacher candidates endeavored to create a cleaner environment, and also contributed to the economy through recycling. For this reason, students should participate in courses on the environment to better learn the role of recycling in ensuring a sustainable future, and the economic contributions and significance of recycling solid wastes.