Publication
UNESCO sites as partners for Education for Sustainable Development: An implementation guide
UNESCO’s programme on using UNESCO sites as learning hubs and as living labs for sustainability promotes scientific and environmental education for sustainable and resilient societies. It aims to develop a novel approach to education for sustainable development and environmental education with, within and among UNESCO sites, as well as inspire connection, curiosity, cooperation and a better understanding of our relationship with nature.
This guide aims to provide practical suggestions and ideas for teachers, educators and site managers on how to mobilize and collaborate with UNESCO sites, including Biosphere Reserves, World Heritage sites, and Geoparks, in order to develop practical learning activities. The overall approach is to promote sustainable climate and environmental actions, based on on-going projects in UNESCO sites around the world, and to let learners experience the reality of sustainable development in their local contexts through these sites.
How UNESCO sites are bridging nature and humanity for a sustainable future
UNESCO’s designated sites are important models for building resilience to climate change and reconciling people and nature. The network includes 759 biosphere reserves, 213 Global Geoparks, 1223 World Heritage sites, 51 ecohydrology demonstration sites and 113 Water Museums across many countries. These sites are important for addressing the major global crises of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss, which threaten current and future generations.
UNESCO sites play a vital role in biodiversity and climate change education, offering hands-on learning experiences that help develop climate and ocean literacy, as well as environmental values and skills. These sites provide resources for education, research, and innovative environmental practices, helping to deepen the relationship humans have with their natural environment.
By integrating the education for sustainable development approach into the UNESCO sites, learners, educators, and entire communities can contribute positively to protecting biodiversity and cultural heritage, take responsibility for their environment, and learn from each other across generations.
The examples presented in this guide highlight the incredible potential of these initiatives.
