Perspectives and Practices of Education for Sustainable Development

“It has become almost commonplace to say that education is needed if we are going to address the multiple ecological and social crises facing humanity. Yet too little thought is given to what form that education might take, what is needed for a deeper transformation, and indeed whether some forms may even be harmful for the cause. This book provides deep insights into this question in the context of higher education. Addressing multiple aspects of the question through its different chapters – on the meanings of sustainable development, curriculum design, assessment, research, leadership and many other areas – it brings together existing knowledge on the topic and provides fresh perspectives. As the introduction states, one of the key challenges is that ESD is often considered a ‘worthy’ cause, but one not relevant to all. Instead, it needs to be understood as part of the fabric of all learning, and inherent to disciplinary coverage, professional development and the broader learning experience on campus and beyond. This book provides essential tools for bringing this approach into being in contemporary higher education institutions. It presents practical steps for change in an accessible format, without losing theoretical depth or an appreciation of the tensions and complexities. An essential companion for those grappling on a day-to-day basis with the pressing task of transforming universities for sustainable, just and creative futures.”
Tristan McCowan, Professor of International Education at the Institute of Education, University College London, UK.

“This book is a valuable addition to literature on Education for Sustainable Development from many of the team of experts behind the 2021 AdvanceHE/QAA guidance report on the subject. The academic book format enables the team to take a more expansive, critical and reflective take on the ESD agenda, exploring the practicalities, challenges and motivations around achieving transformative change for learners, universities and communities to make progress with sustainable development. The book is likely to be of great value to staff leading on ESD in universities, senior leaders seeking guidance on impactful strategic approaches, and anyone with an interest in the many topics explored in depth from pedagogy to research-informed teaching, on which ESD sheds challenging and inspiring light.”
Andrew Reeves, Academic Lead, Education for Sustainable Development, De Montfort University, UK.

“This book makes a compelling case for higher education to be transformed through the implementation of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). It successfully addresses a broad audience – scholarly in its approach but also provides practical tools and specific examples making it as valuable for theoretical consideration as for educators seeking to enhance their own practice. It opens by reminding us of the purpose universities serve, highlighting their impact as generators of new learning, driving industrial and technological revolutions – and therefore stressing universities’ importance in catalysing potential solutions to the planet’s sustainability. This is an urgent and essential call for partnership working across higher education institutions and within institutions, it is argued, ESD links theory and practice to support academic communities in developing the competencies needed to secure human existence. There is no expectation the book will be read in a linear format and its structure helps the reader to select those elements of most interest at any point in time. ESD affects all disciplines and all parts of higher education institutions – this point is successfully made in a manner accessible to all those with an interest in higher education and sustainability.”
Ailsa Crum, QAA’s Director of Membership, Quality Enhancement & Standards.

“At its heart, this book is a powerful call to action for everyone in, or interested in, higher education. By linking ESD to career development, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world impact, it invites readers to rethink the many ways institutions can drive a more sustainable future. Informative, thought-provoking, and deeply practical, it demonstrates how anyone - student, educator, or industry partner - can lead change and contribute to education as a force for good, fostering purpose-led graduates and a more equitable society. I have no doubt it will become essential reading for those determined to transform the purpose and impact of our institutions in response to an urgent and rapidly changing world.”
Charlotte Bonner, EAUC, UK.

“This book is a compelling call to action which articulates the critical role of students and staff in leading sustainable change, both within and beyond the boundaries of a university campus. The book offers the reader a comprehensive reflection on the evolution of ESD within the Higher Education sector, and provides case studies and tools which inspire the reader to challenge current practices and identify opportunities to help embed sustainability within their institution.”
Stephanie Todd, Strategic Operational Lead for Sustainability, Kingston University, UK.

“An eloquent summation of the importance of interdisciplinarity and intersectionality in Education for Sustainable Development. It is a necessity in a world where every single student and their chosen degree relates to sustainability, and has the power to create real, essential change. Climate crisis related issues often feel emotionally exhausting; this book acknowledges that, and provides much needed hope for students embarking on their higher education journeys.”
Bitsy Pout, Ecologist

“With it now having been several decades since the initiation of the ESD movement and its integration into higher education settings, this book offers a comprehensive and timely assessment of where the HE sector is up to with its efforts to support sustainability transformations. The criticality implied in the title is lived up to in the book’s contents where the authors have been unafraid to probe at the uncomfortable and contentious questions that must be confronted by HE institutions if they are to meaningfully respond to the grave planetary conditions, and if they are to properly fulfil their obligations to both students and society. Careful attention is paid to whose voices are included in these efforts, and whose are not. The book’s opening chapters also feature an in-depth exploration of how the underlying historical and political contexts of HE institutions may have contributed to some of the existential challenges we now face. The diligent critiques made within the book are accompanied by pragmatic and productive suggestions for alternative paths forward. The featured examples of activities would be particularly instructive for practitioners and stakeholders who are hoping to better align their institutional aims, strategies, and practices with a more authentic vision of sustainability. I consider this guide to be essential reading for anyone with a keen interest in the interface between sustainability and the HE sector.”
Henry Finn, PhD student, UK.

"Backed by rich research and compelling anecdotes, this book highlights the essential skills graduates need to be equipped with to keep up with the expanding green economy. It thoroughly explores how sustainability is woven into every degree programme, making it an invaluable resource for students, educators and advocates of sustainable development."
Manvir Rai, Undergraduate Student, UK.

"A must-read for anyone interested in the area of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). The points raised on the importance of higher education and the need for collaboration in ESD lays the groundwork for everyone to do so much more. A very informative read."
Samuel Inkster, Undergraduate Student and Student Sustainability Champion of Year Finalist, 2024, UK.

“This book has so much potential to help guide future teachers and students in environment and sustainability-based courses. It concisely lays out the range of options for the associated issues regarding various aspects of the whole ESD subject area and analyses all strongly. I’m especially pleased that there’s recognition how graduates are gravitating towards offers and sectors focused on worthy causes, not the stereotypical best paying job.”
Aksel Conway-Forecast, Undergraduate Student, UK.

"A valuable guide that puts a clear emphasis on preparing students for careers in sustainability, while also educating on the importance of pulling sustainability into all facets of higher education."
Jack Dinham, Undergraduate Student, UK.

“This book ignites a great leap for new transformations that the area of ESD needs, connecting theoretical concepts and practices in education. Sustainability practices and their theory are holistically approached and assessed. This encourages students, educators, and others to become familiarised with ESD to break the barriers of anxiety around ‘what is to come’ and build on ‘what can be done’. This book provides detailed insights without becoming inaccessible, empowering student readers to become the creators of change, and educators the enablers in moulding a future for sustainability. This book is vital for anyone who wants to change our world through educational routes.”
George Banton, Undergraduate Student, UK.