Consciência ambiental dos alunos do curso de agronomia da UFSM: futuros engenheiros agrônomos

Abstract

The world food production will soon be lower than the needs of the population, a fact that motivates both the professional and public and private research institutions in the search for higher rates. Thus, the career prospects in the area of environment must be effectively presented to students. The demand for qualified professionals to submit responses to environmental issues is increasing as the inclusion of the variable “environment” in shaping the current and especially future workers is a responsibility that universities cannot omit. This study aimed to characterize the level of environmental consciousness and concern of students of Agronomy at the Universidade Federal of Santa Maria (UFSM) and to explore their personal and professional attitude regarding the future exercise of those activities directly related to the environment through a survey conducted with the use of qualitative and quantitative tools of data collection, bringing together exploratory and descriptive features in order to draw a profile of these future environmental professionals. The interviewed students expressed concern on environmental issues and presented themselves as future professionals aware of the influence and contributions, both positive and negative, that the profession of agronomist can bring to the environment.