Exploring Different Forms of Engaging Different Publics With Environmental Sustainability

Abstract

Sustainability has become a key concept for several contexts – politics, economics, education, or conservation. This chapter presents a review of some concepts of sustainability, and sustainable development and then focuses on environmental sustainability to discuss emerging trends on engaging citizen: engaging students in the classroom, engaging local communities in their regions, engaging visitors in areas of potential touristic interest. In each case, a theoretical framework is complemented by case studies illustrating how sustainability can be used to promote scientific literacy, positive changes in perceptions and attitudes for biodiversity management and conservation, and to incorporate different knowledges and ways of living. From more classical formats to collaborative and participatory processes, the examples give an overview of current work being done to endorse the values subjacent to environmental sustainability, communicating the interrelatedness between human population and the natural environment and ultimately trying to promote a healthier and sustainable planet.