Education for Sustainability

Ecological sustainability is about preserving nature's ecosystems and ensuring that we utilize resources in a way that does not harm our planet. This involves understanding and respecting the natural limits of what the Earth can offer while working towards a lifestyle that promotes conservation and sustainable use of resources.

Education plays a crucial role in raising awareness and understanding of the Earth's boundaries. We are focused on how children, through play, interaction, and knowledge in, with, and about nature, can contribute to a better future where we do not negatively alter the natural world.

Social and cultural sustainability is about building societies that are just, inclusive, and diverse. It recognizes that nature also has value and a role for everyone, not just as a resource for the few, but also for the entire community, including nature itself. This involves ensuring that all people have equal access to resources, opportunities, and rights, as well as respecting and preserving cultural identity and heritage.

In our research, we explore how education can help promote social values such as cooperation, empathy, and respect for diversity. We seek to empower students to become active, responsible citizens who contribute to a more harmonious and sustainable society. Through engagement in local and global issues, we encourage young people to participate in and positively shape their communities.

Economic sustainability is about creating economic systems that are stable and fair while also safeguarding the environment and the needs of society. Economics is a tool for building good communities that do not overexploit the Earth's resources and services.

In education for sustainability, it is about teaching children and young people that just because you do not see the costs, it does not mean that they are not there.

Good governance is crucial for achieving sustainable development goals. According to Sachs (2013), good governance entails fair and transparent management of resources, where decision-making processes involve all stakeholders and consider both present and future generations. In our research, we examine how education can play an important role in promoting values such as accountability, participation, and justice.

We aim to develop critically thinking citizens who are equipped to demand accountability from their leaders and actively participate in the democratic process. This is essential for creating societies where individuals feel heard and where sustainable solutions can be achieved through collaboration and dialogue. By promoting good governance in education, we can contribute to building a more just and sustainable society for all.