Written by Niels Hazekamp from Jongeren Milieu Actief (JMA)/Young Friends of the Earth Netherlands.
On the 9th of October, in The Netherlands more than 40 youth organisations signed the Treaty for Sustainability in Education with a parliamentary majority. The treaty is the result of years of hard work by Young Friends of the Earth Netherlands and others to integrate sustainability in all aspects of education. The Dutch minister of Education, Ms. Bussemaker, received the treaty with much delight.
The treaty underlines the importance of integrating sustainable development in education. We are facing difficult global environmental issues and solving these issues requires a generation with relevant knowledge and skills. Education plays a crucial role and must become future-oriented. Sustainable practices are often taught in seperate courses, while the issue at hand is part of every bit of society and not a seperate problem.
A green generation asks for sustainable education. That is why the treaty asks the Minister and Secretary of State to investigate how sustainable development can be facilitated in education.
They have produced a storify website which portrays the story of getting this treaty passed.
Well done Young Friends of the Earth Netherlands!
