What do we mean by ‘sustainable development’?

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Sustainable development is a complex concept but can perhaps be defined in simple terms as meeting the needs of the present generation without harming the ability of future generations to meet their needs. It therefore allows that Education for Sustainable Development must be far-reaching in its effort to help young people understand the causes of growing environmental and social problems, and then work towards a better future.

The following key concepts are generally accepted to underpin sustainable development:

Interdependence

Understanding how people, the environment and the economy are inextricably linked at all levels from local to global

Rights and responsibilities of global citizens

Recognising the importance of taking individual responsibility and action to ensure the world is a better place

Needs and rights of future generations

Understanding our own basic needs and the implications for the needs of future generations of actions taken today

Diversity

Respecting and valuing both human diversity – cultural, social and economic – and biodiversity.

Quality of life, equity and justice

Acknowledging that global equity and justice are essential elements of sustainability and that basic needs must be met universally

Sustainable change

Understanding that resources are finite and that this has implications for people’s lifestyles, and for commerce and industry

Uncertainty and precaution

Acknowledging that there are a range of possible approaches to sustainability and that situations are constantly changing, indicating a need for flexibility and lifelong learning.

These key concepts can be elaborated in terms of values, skills, knowledge and understanding which have relevance right across the curriculum. They can be further elaborated as specific learning outcomes by key stages and levels.