Environment education and sustainable development initiatives in Jamaica

Education for sustainable development (ESD) is a concept that goes far beyond environmental education. It is the educational process of achieving human development (which envisages three pillars of human development: “economic growth”, “social development”, and “environmental protection”) in an inclusive, equitable and secure manner. It, thus, includes education for: poverty alleviation, human rights, gender equality, cultural diversity, international understanding, peace, etc. The concept of putting environmentally sustainable development into practice involves challenges that are as diverse as the make-up of population. Sustainable development ultimately depends on enhancing people’s capacities as individuals and groups to improve their own lives and to take greater control over their own destinies. Education is contended to be a critical tool for achieving sustainable development. The major environmental problems in Jamaica involve water quality and waste disposal. Further, about 680 plant species are also threatened. Endangered species in Jamaica include the tundra peregrine falcon, swallowtail butterfly, green sea turtle, hawksbill turtle, and American crocodile. This paper proposes a framework for conceptualizing, planning for and implementing an education agenda for sustainable development within the Jamaican context. The paper concludes that Jamaica will continue to achieve its goals in adopting the right approach for the ongoing interdependence of the environment and the economy in the 21st century and beyond. The Jamaican Government seeks to stimulate “economic re-growth” and stimulate the minds of people to create an interest in exploring solutions to environmental issues.