However, seven years after Rio, these results were disappointing. Most of the activity has occurred below the radar screens of national governments. Projects have been small, discussions among environmental educators and ESD proponents have been long, and some have taken up the cause with missionary zeal. Indeed most of the teaching techniques used in ESD aim at transforming the classroom, the school, the university, and the community. More simply put, you must practice what you preach.
Physical buildings are often the first target.
From the many class projects worldwide that plant gardens and institute energy conservation measures to complex projects like the new Environmental Science Center at Oberlin University in Ohio that was designed by students to be a net exporter of energy, places of learning are being created that demonstrate and reinforce the tenets of sustainability. As these successful experiments and models multiply, they could make the case for education for sustainability. They hope to raise the profile of ESD in the general debate. Education ministers should follow its implementation every bit as closely as environment ministers. Back to Vol.