Educating for a Sustainable Future 2/3

In this post series, we explore the teaching of sustainability education in schools, aiming to enhance the well-being of both present and future generations, even in times of uncertainty. Our insights are informed by quality research from various universities.

Climate Change Anxiety and Pro-Environmental Behavior

Many have probably heard or noticed in their daily lives that climate anxiety, especially among young people, has increased recently. Anxiety is a natural feeling in a situation where one simultaneously recognizes the acceleration of climate change, yet societal practices continue along the same path. However, a research conducted in collaboration between several universities shows that pro-environmental behavior reduces climate anxiety by channeling feelings of despair into action. Encouraging environmentally positive actions and setting an example can simultaneously improve the well-being of young people and the environment.

A Finnish study indicates that environmentally positive behavior requires both anxiety and hope. Anxiety motivates change, while hope provides a vision of a better future to strive for. Without anxiety, it would be easy to continue with “business as usual,” and without hope, it might feel like nothing more could be done. Therefore, as educators, it’s essential to discuss matters truthfully without fearing anxiety and to create a safe environment for processing these emotions. Additionally, sustaining hope is important, and it can be fostered for example by sharing examples of impactful environmental actions and integrating environmentally beneficial activities into education or other school initiatives. Active citizenship and collaboration with peers or other community members also enhance a sense of belonging and provide positive experiences of competence. Through collaboration, individual actions multiply and create a greater impact!

Concrete ways to implement Finnish sustainability education

It is clear that every teacher operates within the framework of their own educational system, and structural challenges are not easily changed. However, we believe that discussing the challenges and opportunities across different educational systems is beneficial, even if implementation occurs within the confines of one’s own system.

Here are some concise tips for sustainability education based on the Finnish National Agency for Education’s recommendations:

1. Integrating Sustainability Across Subjects:

• Embed sustainability themes into various subjects. For instance, explore environmental issues in natural science classes or discuss ethical consumption in social sciences.
• Engage students in real-world projects related to sustainability, encouraging them to design solutions, conduct research, and collaborate with peers.

2. Outdoor Education

• Take learning beyond the classroom. Nature walks, field trips, and outdoor experiments provide firsthand experiences and foster a deeper connection to the environment. It is important to understand what is protected and why.
• Are you interested in Outdoor Education Study Tour?

3. Critical Thinking and Promoting Active Citizenship:

• Encourage students to analyze complex sustainability challenges.
• Discuss the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic factors.
• Teach students about their role as global citizens by exploring topics like climate justice, responsible consumption, and community engagement.

It is important that while discussing prevailing challenges truthfully, solutions are also provided. It is crucial that no one has to contemplate such significant matters alone; challenges should be faced together! Individual consumption choices play a vital role, but communities enable societal change.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead, Educational Anthropologist

In the next blog post, we will examine how families could support the transition from overconsumption to sustainable way of life. Stay tuned and don’t forget to subscribe to our Newsletter if you haven’t done it yet!

Heidi Riikonen
Sustainability specialist

Heidi Riikonen is a Master of Education graduate from the Tampere University in Finland, who has researched the promotion of sustainable development through education in both of her theses. She believes that the most important task of education is to prepare new generations for the future but updating knowledge or developing understanding does not depend on age. The adults of today have a responsibility for the well-being of future generations, and therefore every educator should be interested in implementing the principles of sustainable development within their sphere of influence. Alone we may feel hopeless, but together we can make a significant difference and offer a better future for everyone!