Education for Sustainable Development (ESD)
The importance of addressing the issues of natural resources (particularly water, energy, agriculture and biodiversity) has been highlighted as part of the broader agenda of SD. In particular, an appreciation of the links with society and the economy should motivate learners to change their attitude and behaviour and re-prioritise the protection of the world's natural resources, which are essential for human development and indeed survival. Humanity is dependent on the goods and services provided by ecosystems. Thus, the protection and restoration of the Earth's ecosystems is of crucial importance.
To cope with new challenges, which include working towards sustainability goals in the future, a holistic review of Hong Kong's education system was done in 2000. The Education Commission recommended building an experiential and learner-focused education system with an emphasis on whole-person development and the pursuit of life-long learning to meet the needs of today's society. The new General Studies Primary Curriculum provides more freedom for schools to develop school-based programmes that encourage even the youngest students to become independent life-long learners. Through exposure to a greater diversity of learning experiences, students have the chance to gain a better understanding of themselves and the world around them. The beneficial features of ESD to the general studies curriculum include its interdisciplinary, holistic nature and values-driven approach, and the opportunity to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills, There is also scope for multi-method learning and participatory decision-making on issues of both local and global relevance.