Knowledge, Attitude, and Perception of Students Regarding Renewable Energies in Agriculture in Guilan, Iran

Abstract

Transitioning from fossil to renewable energy is a global challenge, especially for countries with large fossil-fuel reserves and exports, such as Iran. This study analyses agricultural students' knowledge of, attitudes toward, and perceptions of renewable energies in the agriculture sector in Guilan Province in Iran. The research was based on a structured questionnaire comprising three sections: (i) respondents' socio-demographics; (ii) practicality and relevance of academic material and curriculum; and (iii) respondents' knowledge of and attitudes and perceptions toward renewable energies in agriculture. The results showed that students' attitudes regarding renewable energies ranked highest, and their perception was lowest. The results also showed a positive and significant relationship between the respondents' knowledge, marital status, age, and level of education. Moreover, respondents' age and educational level significantly impacted their attitudes. Cluster analysis divided students' behavior into three different clusters. These clusters were most affected by attitude. In clustering students' behavior towards using renewable energies, 38.5%, 33.5%, and 28% of respondents were positioned in the first, third, and second clusters, respectively. This is a pioneering study analyzing agricultural students' behavior regarding renewable energies in agriculture in Guilan Province, Iran. The results of this study can assist agricultural organizations, politicians in the field of energy, and local authorities in promoting sustainable energy in Guilan Province.