Sustainability has become something of a buzz word in recent times, and is gradually entering our schools via the new Australian curriculum, which identifies it as one of three cross-curriculum priorities.
So what does it mean to be sustainable and why do we need to live sustainably?
I promise to make this quick. Sustainability refers to endurance, keeping something going. Sustainability is future-orientated, focusing on protecting environments and creating a more ecologically and socially just world through informed action. It is necessary in order for humans to ensure that planet Earth and all of its resources, can continue to provide a home for humans and for all other species (animals and plants) forever.
Educating children on sustainability develops the skills, values and world views necessary to secure our future for generations to come. This why teachers and other educators are required to give students the opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of sustainabilty across all learning areas.