Environment and Sustainability

Environmental education is defined as a way of understanding how humans are part of and influence the environment. It involves:

students learning about their connections to the natural environment through all subjects
students having direct experiences in the environment, both natural and human-built
students making decisions about and acting for the environment

The term sustainability helps to describe societies that "promote diversity and do not compromise the natural world for any species in the future."

Value of Integrating Environment and Sustainability Themes

Integrating "environment and sustainability" themes into the curriculum helps students develop a responsible attitude toward caring for the earth. Students are provided with opportunities to identify their beliefs and opinions, reflect on a range of views, and ultimately make informed and responsible choices.

Some guiding principles that support the integration of "environment and sustainability" themes in subjects from Kindergarten to Grade 12 include:

Direct experience is the basis of learning.
Responsible action is integral to, and a consequence of, environmental education.
Life on Earth depends on, and is part of, complex systems.
Human decisions and actions have environmental consequences.
Environmental awareness enables students to develop an aesthetic appreciation of the environment.
The study of the environment enables students to develop an environmental ethic.

This summary is derived from Environmental Concepts in the Classroom: A Guide for Teachers , Ministry of Education, 1995.

Revised: January 27, 1999

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