Integrating ESD in Science Education to Enhance Understanding of SDGs and Sustainability Awareness: A Systematic Literature Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33751/jsep.v10i1.34Keywords:
ESD, Science Education, SDGs, Sustainability, AwarenessAbstract
Background: The growing intricacy of worldwide environmental, social, and economic issues underscores the immediate necessity to bolster Education for Sustainable Development in the realm of science education. Incorporating ESD is vital to improve learners' comprehension of the Sustainable Development Goals and to cultivate awareness of sustainability in light of challenges like climate change, environmental harm, and the depletion of resources.
Methods: This study employed a Systematic Literature Review using the PRISMA framework to identify, screen, and analyze relevant studies on ESD integration in science education. Articles were collected from databases such as Scopus, and Google Scholar with inclusion criteria focusing on peer-reviewed research published between 2016 and 2025. Data analysis was conducted using qualitative content analysis to identify patterns, instructional approaches, impacts, and challenges.
Results: The findings indicate that ESD integration in science education significantly improves students’ understanding of SDGs and sustainability awareness. Student-centered approaches such as Problem-Based Learning, Project-Based Learning, inquiry-based learning, and contextual learning are the most effective strategies. These approaches enable learners to connect scientific concepts with real-world sustainability issues, including climate change, renewable energy, and environmental conservation.
Conclusion: The integration of ESD into science education plays a crucial role in strengthening students’ cognitive, affective, and behavioral competencies related to sustainability. By linking scientific knowledge with real-world environmental and social issues, ESD fosters deeper SDGs understanding and enhances sustainability awareness. Therefore, strengthening teacher capacity, developing contextual learning resources, and improving curriculum support are essential to optimize the implementation of ESD in science education for sustainable development goals.
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