How Landscape Preferences and Emotions Shape Environmental Awareness: Perspectives from University Experiences

Experience within the university landscape significantly shapes students’ environmental attitudes and behaviors. Greenery spaces, water bodies, architectural features, recreational spaces, and sustainable landscape design may not only enhance mental health but also foster a love for and responsibility toward the environment. This study proposed structural equation modeling to evaluate the causal relationship between landscape experiences and students’ environmental awareness by examining the roles of landscape preferences and emotional responses. The findings indicated that (1) when students frequently engage with landscape elements in the university, they tend to attach to the landscape, fostering a sense of belonging and appreciation for healthy learning environments; (2) students’ attachment to the landscape develops positive emotions toward their surroundings; (3) when students value and enjoy the healthy landscapes on campus, they are more likely to exhibit environmental awareness through actions like conserving resources, minimizing waste, and engaging in conservation activities. These behaviors arise from an understanding of the significance of landscapes and the direct impact of positive experiences and favorable emotions associated with these spaces. Therefore, universities can leverage landscape design as a crucial tool to promote sustainable awareness and behavior, guiding students to develop a sense of responsibility toward the natural environment.