6: Sustainability: Research and Reality in the Education Debate

In this chapter, you will:

• Examine the evolution of education for sustainable development (ESD) in England.

• Critically evaluate the challenges of integrating sustainability and climate change education (CCE) in schools.

• Explore the balance between conceptual knowledge, participatory engagement, and action-oriented learning in effective ESD practices.

• Reflect on strategies to support hope and emotional resilience in the face of climate anxiety amongst learners.

• Identify evidence-informed approaches to curriculum design that empower teachers and pupils to take meaningful action.