Reframing Sustainability Learning: From Net-zero to Net-positive

Robert J. Didham
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Robert J. Didham: Robert J. Didham, Center for Collaborative Learning for Sustainable Development, University of Inland Norway, Elverum, Hedmark 2418, Norway. E-mail: robert.didham@inn.no

Journal of Education for Sustainable Development, 2025, vol. 19, issue 1, 46-57

Abstract: In this commentary, the idea of a stronger focus on a net-positive learning perspective and a solutions-oriented approach in education for sustainable development (ESD) is proposed as a means to uplift its transformative potential and support an accelerated effort towards achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs). A net-positive learning perspective in ESD moves beyond a mitigation-based approach to achieving sustainable development and brings into focus a positive benefits approach—giving more than you take. It also acknowledges the importance of sustainable development as a form of immanent development that evolves through processes of negotiation, deliberation and reframing and aims to build the competence for this collaborative, values-based endeavour in learners and through engaged citizenship.

Keywords: Education for sustainable development; net-positive learning; solutions-oriented approach; transformative learning; immanent development (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:sae:jousus:v:19:y:2025:i:1:p:46-57

DOI: 10.1177/09734082251336303

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