Environmental education focused on social participation in non-formal spaces

Abstract

Non-formal education plays a fundamental role in building citizenship and requires resources and new alternatives to rethink urban spaces in an environmentally just way. Critical Environmental Education goes beyond identifying problems; it seeks to generate socio-environmental transformations and overcome the environmental crisis. In this context, this article aimed to discuss and reclaim an abandoned public space using Critical Environmental Education and participatory Action-Research methodologies. The research involved applying semi-structured questionnaires, participatory observation, conducting educational activities and community fairs. The fairs proved to be an effective tool for raising community awareness. Significant progress was observed in empowering social actors, rooted in a sense of belonging, which resulted from the group’s struggle and persistence in pursuing a common goal: improving the public square and enhancing quality of life