Education for Sustainable Development (ESD)

Background

Cartoon Karl Herweg

In 2010, the government council of the Canton of Bern declared Sustainable Development (SD) as a goal for the University of Bern. The University’s Strategy 2030 defines Sustainability as one of five key issues for 2022-2030, and the University law requires an effective contribution to SD in research, teaching, and operations.

Students are the next generation, and they need to be actively involved in sustainable development. This means being able to take responsibility for the future by reflecting on it, innovatively co-determining it, and anticipating developments. We can all do this – as citizens, or in specific fields such as business, science, or politics. The ESD-UniBE team offers platforms for discussion, advice, workshops, and networking. It motivates students and supports teaching staff in integrating the topic into courses. A range of material such as slides, web-based instruments, or educational videos are accessible for free; case studies illustrate the connections that completely different disciplines have to SD. These materials are continuously developed and complemented – your help and cooperation are welcome!