Summary
Integrating nature-based solutions (NBS) in education is key to ensuring a greener and better future for all. NBS EduWORLD targeted all levels and types of education (formal, informal and non-formal) to make citizens aware and supported in the understanding of the value and transformative potential of nature in urban, rural and coastal areas. Through this work, communities became more prepared, cohesive and participative in engaging with nature and using the benefits of nature to solve some of the world’s most pressing environmental, social and economic challenges.
Other specific objectives of the project were:
- Support integrated STEM teaching and Inquiry-Based Science Education (IBSE) by exploring real-world applications of NBS, feeding into the broader EU STEM education strategy.
- Explore and implement new dissemination and mobilisation strategies to suit broader lifelong learning on NBS through 21st-century technologies and transversal skill development.
- Explore synergies between NBS and the emerging field of education for environmental sustainability (EES).
To achieve these objectives, the project brought together a unique consortium of researchers, educators, NBS practitioners, and even theatre performers and sports community members with the shared goal to create an NBS EduWORLD, a community that makes a difference.
The need for NBS experts and other environmental professionals will only grow as the world faces the social, economic, and environmental consequences of climate change and strives to achieve a climate neutral economy. NBS EduWORLD provides educators with the resources to empower and inspire the decision makers and NBS professionals of tomorrow.
Outcomes
As the NBS EduWORLD project comes to a close, it leaves behind a diverse suite of resources designed to embed nature-based solutions (NBS) into education at all levels.
For educators with little or average NBS knowledge, the project offers Learning Scenarios, Stories of Implementation and Good Practices, developed through international competitions and STEM campaigns. Two MOOCs - Exploring Nature-Based Solutions in Your Classroom (2023 & 2025) - support formal and non-formal education, while the NBS School Expertise recognises 15 outstanding schools integrating NBS into their teaching.
NBS Education experts benefit from the NBS EduWORLD Academy, building a global community of advanced NBS educators, and the upcoming Living Labs Roadmap, guiding schools in transforming infrastructure, curricula, and community engagement around sustainability. Collaborative efforts from the Task Force on NBS Education have also led to two new guidance materials, NBS Journalism 101 Design Guide and a new Framework for Equitable Nature-Based Education.
In higher education, a library of 50 modular Learning Units supports formal and informal learning, while the forthcoming Stepping Stones pilot and assessment explores personalised NBS learning journeys and entrepreneurial integration.
The NBS EduDirectory (a free, searchable library of 250+ resources) supports educators across all levels. For policymakers, the Youth Inclusion Toolkit for Local Authorities and upcoming Policy recommendations offer guidance to mainstream NBS in education and community decision-making.
All these resources (and more!) are available via Scientix® and the NBS EduWORLD website - empowering educators, experts, and policymakers to drive sustainability through education.