This Country Made Environmental Education Mandatory—Should Others Follow?

Finland made environmental education mandatory across all school subjects, preparing future generations for a sustainable world. Should other countries follow this model?

Written by Warrence Oghenevwegba

Published On: April 28, 2025, 10:15 P.M

In an era where climate change poses an existential threat, some nations are taking bold steps to prepare their citizens for a sustainable future. Finland stands out as a pioneer, having integrated environmental education into its national curriculum, ensuring that sustainability is not just an add-on but a core component of learning.

But should other countries emulate Finland's approach to environmental education?

Finland's Comprehensive Approach to Environmental Education

Finland has embedded sustainable development as a cross-curricular theme in its national core curriculum for basic and upper secondary education. This means that environmental education is not confined to a single subject but is interwoven across various disciplines, from science and geography to economics and ethics. The curriculum emphasizes competencies such as understanding the significance of protecting the environment, recognizing the impact of personal choices on nature and society, and developing capabilities to evaluate and change societal structures for a sustainable future (thegeep.org).

In practice, Finnish schools like Sakarinmäki School in Helsinki are exemplifying this approach. Students engage in hands-on activities such as recycling, studying renewable energy through on-site solar panels, and participating in simulations of international climate negotiations. These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance understanding but also foster a sense of responsibility and empowerment among students.

The Global Movement Towards Environmental Education

Finland is not alone in recognizing the importance of environmental education. Countries like Argentina have enacted laws mandating environmental training for government officials, ensuring that decision-makers are equipped with the knowledge to address environmental challenges (en.wikipedia.org). Similarly, the Philippines has integrated climate change education into its school curriculum, reflecting a growing global acknowledgment of the need for environmental literacy (en.wikipedia.org).

These initiatives underscore a collective understanding that environmental education is crucial for fostering informed citizens capable of contributing to sustainable development.

The Case for Mandatory Environmental Education

Integrating environmental education into the core curriculum offers several benefits:

Holistic Understanding: Students gain a comprehensive view of environmental issues, understanding their scientific, economic, and social dimensions.

Behavioral Change: Early education on sustainability fosters environmentally responsible behaviors, such as recycling and energy conservation.

Empowerment: Knowledge equips students to participate actively in environmental decision-making processes, from local community initiatives to global discussions.

Innovation: Educated individuals are more likely to develop innovative solutions to environmental challenges, driving progress towards sustainability.

Challenges and Considerations

While the benefits are clear, implementing mandatory environmental education requires careful planning:

Curriculum Development: Creating interdisciplinary content that effectively conveys complex environmental concepts.

Teacher Training: Ensuring educators are equipped with the necessary knowledge and resources to teach environmental topics effectively.

Resource Allocation: Providing schools with the materials and support needed to implement experiential learning activities.

Conclusion

Finland's integration of environmental education into its national curriculum serves as a compelling model for other countries. By equipping students with the knowledge and skills to address environmental challenges, such education fosters a generation of informed, responsible citizens ready to lead the way towards a sustainable future.

So, should other nations follow Finland's lead and make environmental education mandatory? Given the pressing nature of global environmental issues, the answer seems clear: it's not just an option—it's a necessity.