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What is sustainable development?

The term sustainable development was coined at the UN Conference on the Human Environment which took place in Stockholm in 1997. This international meeting was the turning point at which the way we live and consume the earth's resources was addressed.

What exactly is Education for Sustainable Development?

The Government Panel for Sustainable Development Education provides the following definition of ESD;

"ESD enables people to develop the knowledge, values and skills to participate in decisions about the way we do things individually and collectively, both locally and globally, that will improve the quality of life now and without damaging the planet for the future."
(National Curriculum 1999)

In essence education for sustainable development is an amalgamation of environmental education and development education.

Why is Education for Sustainable Development so important?

Sustainable development is a fundamental challenge that all nations face to avoid long term damage to our natural environment. It is about learning to live in ways that increase quality of life without depleting the earths resources faster than they can regenerate.

• Young people today are the decision makers of tomorrow and so it is essential that they are provided with the correct skills, values and knowledge to make informed decisions at a local and global level.

For your free copy of 'Sustainable Development Indicators in your Pocket' 2004 or 2005 booklet e-mail Emma Edwards or call on: 01244 603125.  The booklet provides a selection of the UK Government's indicators of sustainable development.

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