ABSTRACT
This study undertook a retrospective and updated bibliographic and documentary review of the national context with regard to the delivery of Environmental Education and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) by various governmental, private and non-governmental bodies in Chile.
An exploratory and qualitative open-ended questionnaire was used to gain an understanding of certain fundamental issues. The questionnaire was submitted to a focus group composed of academics, researchers and members of leading ESD organizations from the Sustainable Campus Network (Red Campus Sustainable). The latter comprises higher education institutions and representatives of the Chilean Ministries of the Environment and Education and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). A bibliographical review of legislation, government decrees and official and non-official documents was also conducted.
The conclusion was that Environmental Education in Chile is predominantly an awareness-raising exercise with close links to public environmental management. The research found no examples of ESD that were aligned with the UNESCO proposals. There is therefore a need for further research, new methodologies and greater reflection on Environmental Education and ESD by higher education institutions, and a firm commitment by all parties to take the necessary steps to overcome the challenges of climate change.
