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Backgrounder: Framework for Environmental Learning and Sustainability in Canada

There are many different ways for Canadians to participate in the creation of a sustainable society. A major component is learning about and understanding how the Earth and its ecosystems work, and how human activity affects the environment — sometimes called the ecological footprint. Increased knowledge and actions that promote sustainable living can be achieved through integrating environmental learning into governments, communities, schools, organizations, and the private sector.

In 1996, UNESCO was assigned the lead for Chapter 36 of Agenda 21: Promoting education, public awareness and training. The Framework for Environmental Learning and Sustainability in Canada was developed as Canada's response to a call from UNESCO that nations develop strategies for education and sustainable development. Countries participating in the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992 endorsed the contents of the Chapter. Canada's Framework for Environmental Learning and Sustainability was developed through a consultation process that involved over 5,500 Canadians from 1999 to 2002.

The Framework for Environmental Learning and Sustainability sets out an agenda for environmental learning in Canada. Part of the agenda involves the values that serve as a foundation for environmental learning, and ideas and strategies for increasing knowledge, capacity and action. The objective is to educate Canadians about sustainability, and encourage people to incorporate the values of sustainable living into their daily routines.

In addition to being strong leaders in the consultation process, over 100 Canadian delegates provided specific input as the result of the Planet'ERE II International Conference on Environmental Education held in Paris in November of 2001.

Implementation of Canada's Framework for Environmental Learning and Sustainability will be accomplished through a series of Action Plans designed by governments, communities, the private sector, non-government organizations and individuals from across the country. Although the Framework is only just being presented, there are already more than 130 such action plans.

Corporate interest in the Framework has been encouraging, with partners in implementation such as TD/Canada Trust, Shell Canada and a leader in environmental communications, Canadian Geographic.