Global climate change awareness of prospective teachers in different programs in terms of specific variables

The purpose of this study is to assess the awareness levels of pre-service teachers concerning global climate change and to explore how these levels differ based on various demographic factors. Given that climate change presents not only environmental risks but also significant educational and social implications, determining the extent of knowledge, attitudes, and sensitivity among future educators is essential for the development of effective environmental education strategies. Employing a quantitative research method, the study was carried out using the general survey model. The research sample included 450 pre-service teachers from diverse teaching programs at Sakarya University Faculty of Education during the 2024–2025 academic year. Data were gathered through the "Global Climate Change Awareness Scale for University Students," a validated tool encompassing four core dimensions. The scale comprises four sub-dimensions: Effects on the Natural and Human Environment, Awareness of Global Organizations and Agreements, Underlying Causes, and the Relationship with Energy Consumption. The analysis indicated that pre-service teachers generally demonstrated a higher-than-average level of awareness regarding global climate change. Nonetheless, significant variations were identified across gender, year of study, academic program, and previous exposure to environmental education. Additionally, a statistically meaningful correlation was found between participants' perception of climate change as a threat and their total awareness scores. Based on these outcomes, the study emphasizes the need for integrating climate change and sustainability-related content more comprehensively into teacher education curricula. Enhancing environmental awareness among pre-service teachers is considered vital to equipping future generations with the knowledge and responsibility required to address global ecological challenges. Keywords: Global Climate Change, Awareness, Pre-service Teachers, Environmental Education, Sustainability.