Integration of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in Primary School Learning in Indonesia

Abstract

Education for Sustainable Development serves as a strategic approach to fostering awareness, attitudes, and behaviors among young generations toward environmental, social, and economic sustainability. This study aims to describe the implementation of Education for Sustainable in Indonesian primary schools using a qualitative descriptive method. Data were collected through literature reviews of previous research, educational policies, and learning practices at the elementary level. The analysis reveals that Education for Sustainable has been integrated through thematic learning, environmental projects, community-based activities, and character education programs emphasizing social responsibility and ecological awareness. Such implementation has been proven to enhance students’ systems thinking, collaboration, and reflective skills. However, limited teacher training, insufficient learning resources, and a lack of policy support remain key challenges to effective implementation. The study highlights the need for stronger institutional collaboration among government, schools, and communities, as well as teacher capacity building and curriculum innovation, to ensure that sustainability values are effectively embedded from early education as a fundamental foundation for the nation’s sustainable development.