Mehmet Can Soyhan
Master's Thesis
Sakarya University


Abstract

Today, the rapid increase in environmental problems has become a priority area of study for social policy implementations. Ensuring the continuity of vital elements is only possible through the protection of nature. It is crucial to end humanity's polluting approach toward the environment, and action plans for environmental protection and stewardship must be implemented as soon as possible. The capacity to disseminate and scale environmental communication and awareness will significantly contribute to finding solutions. Environmental communication methods must be developed to increase environmental sensitivity across all segments of society. Fostering environmentally conscious individuals and establishing lasting sustainable behavior in them is considered a key outcome.

In terms of environmental communication, a great responsibility falls on the family and all social institutions. The impact of communication on environmental awareness must be brought to the forefront when running any campaign. Social environmental communication is a result of the combined efforts of individuals and institutions.

This study discusses the role of social communication training, media, and communication campaigns in creating environmental awareness. Furthermore, research contributing to the solution of the problem in the development of the circular economy and environmental sensitivity has been conducted. The research was analyzed using the “MAXQDA 2022 Qualitative Analysis Program.” The analysis of interview questions conducted with 15 people led to the finding that the circular economy and environmental communication effectively protect nature. The outputs obtained from the research topic address many different fields. The factors of environmental communication were examined in conjunction with the benefits of the circular economy. It was observed that when the subject of the study is the environment, education and awareness-raising efforts are prominent for achieving success. Accordingly, necessary training should be provided and disseminated to citizens for the project's success.

The circular economy is an economic model that foresees growth by integrating recycling, reclamation, and environmental communication. In this new economic system, the circular economy adopts the principles of “reuse,” “reduction,” and “recycling,” in contrast to the linear economy’s “take,” “use,” and “dispose” principles. Communication holds a prominent place in the modeling of environmental protection.

https://dergipark.org.tr/tr/download/article-file/4758076