Environment and Education: an Overview of Research and Academic Production

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to conduct an integrative literature review of academic productions on Environmental Education in Elementary Education, to map practices and conceptions on the topic.   Theoretical Framework: The research is grounded in Environmental Education and citizenship training references, highlighting concepts of critical consciousness, sustainability, interdisciplinarity, pedagogical contextualization, and the relationship between school, local knowledge, and territory.   Method: A qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory study conducted via an integrative review. Data collection was carried out in BDTD, SciELO, Web of Science, Scopus, and Dimensions databases, covering the period from 2021 to 2025.   Results and Discussion: The results reveal Environmental Education as a vital dimension in human development and citizenship. It was found that continuous, interdisciplinary approaches linked to the territory and community enhance socio-environmental understanding and the development of values in students.   Research Implications: Provides practical and pedagogical guidelines for educators and managers in Elementary Education, encouraging the strengthening of school practices integrated into the community's socio-environmental context.   Originality/Value: The research contributes a systematic and updated overview (2021–2025) of scientific productions on Environmental Education, highlighting paths for the consolidation of interdisciplinary and contextualized methodologies.