Sustainable Development & Young People – Sustainable Development Commission Report

In this report, the Sustainable Development Commission emphasises that 21st century policies for young people must take account of the challenges ahead and be conscious of their impact on both local and global communities.

There is a need to ensure that all policies and services for young people are examined for their sound sustainable approach, making them better policies for the present as well as tackling the challenges to come.

Since young people have the greatest stake in the future, this report argues that it is our responsibility to empower them to look after the planet in adulthood and, crucially, to question and challenge the practices of present-day decision- makers. Five strategic priorities are set out to encourage a step change in embedding sustainable development within policies for young people in England.

First, capacity must be built within the children and young people's workforce to apply sustainable development to policy and practice.

Secondly, young people should be engaged in sustainable development thinking in formal and informal education settings, driving up their understanding of 21st century challenges and empowering them to shape decisions that affect their future.

Thirdly, the formal education curriculum needs to recognise sustainable development as a key context for 21st century learning.

Fourthly, young people need access to facilities that demonstrate excellence in sustainable practice and design.

Finally, effective and consistent signalling is required from Government about the importance of sustainable development in local delivery.