Promoting education for sustainable development through the green school program to achieve SDGs: Insights from a case study of Beijing’s primary and secondary schools

Abstract

This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Green School Program (GSP) as a tool for Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Focusing on 98 primary and secondary schools in Beijing’s Xicheng District, it employs a multiple, descriptive case study approach supported by statistical analysis. The research assesses various aspects of ESD for 2030, such as policy implementation, learning environments, educator roles, youth engagement, and local initiatives. An innovative aspect of the study is the use of remote sensing technology to assess educational quality. The findings highlight effective methods for measuring ESD and provide China’s experiences and recommendations to contribute to global school-based sustainable development efforts, suggesting the importance of stakeholder collaboration in advancing SDGs. The study offers significant insights into the operational assessment of ESD in schools and contributes to global sustainable development initiatives.