Education for Sustainability: The Role of Education and Neurosciences

Abstract

The concept of sustainability has been gaining prominence due to its social, economic, and environmental implications. The urgency surrounding this issue continues to mount as we strive to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda. To achieve these goals, it is imperative to harness scientific knowledge and innovative educational approaches. Pedagogical approaches can be a powerful ally to behavioral change, playing a decisive role in educating sustainable communities. Concurrently, neuroscientific basis has been used as a relevant tool to foster knowledge on human behavior, namely value attribution and decision‐making. In this work, we emphasize the construction of 1‐day workshops with high school students, focusing on neuro‐based processes underlying sustainable choices. Several innovative pedagogical methods have been employed to encourage the development of critical knowledge and promote the adoption of more sustainable behavior. This article discusses the connection between sustainable consumption and neuroscience, highlighting the vital role of education in shaping the consciousness of responsible citizens. The diversity of educational activities, the stimulation of creativity, and critical thinking cannot only improve the acquisition of concepts but also contribute to the education of citizens who are informed and capable of making responsible and conscious decisions.