S.A.F.E. Sustainable Approach to the Environment in Adult Education

What is the status of education for sustainable development goals in adult education?

Answered by thecase study developed within the strategic partnership S.A.F.E.: Sustainable Approach to the Environment in Adult Education.

The educational project focuses on developing the competencies of adult education professionals who guide adults towards sustainability in a broader sense:

– towards environmental protection,
– towards climate change prevention,
– towards reduced consumption,
– towards a zero-waste lifestyle,
– towards a healthy lifestyle, reflecting aspects of both physical and mental health, and
– towards active citizenship.

The study results confirm a close connection between adult education outside the formal education system and the fulfillment of sustainable development goals, covered by Agenda 2030 (UN). The methods applied in conducting the study were selected with regard to the national and socio-economic contexts of individual partners. Various types and methods of research were used to process the study results: qualitative research and interpretation, correlational and comparative research, historical research, simulation, and logical argumentation.

Each partner organization analyzed significant adult education activities aimed at developing sustainable development goals at the local, regional, and national levels, taking into account the perspective of educational organizations, the community, and individuals.

Youthfully Yours SK in the study offers an insight into adult education for sustainable development in the national and EU context. The study depicts the general awareness of the Slovak public about sustainable development issues, specifically addressing consumer behavior, mass events, and public opinion polls. The current challenges and needs of adult education for sustainable development in Slovakia are synthesized with a closer focus on key actors, factors influencing its future, and recommendations for its support.

Study available? SAFE: Case study

The project is financially supported by the Erasmus+ program. The European Commission's support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the content, which reflects only the views of the authors. The Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.