Reframing Sustainability Learning: From Net-zero to Net-positive

In this commentary, the idea of a stronger focus on a net-positive learning perspective and a solutions-oriented approach in education for sustainable development (ESD) is proposed as a means to uplift its transformative potential and support an accelerated effort towards achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs). A net-positive learning perspective in ESD moves beyond a mitigation-based approach to achieving sustainable development and brings into focus a positive benefits approach—giving more than you take. It also acknowledges the importance of sustainable development as a form of immanent development that evolves through processes of negotiation, deliberation and reframing and aims to build the competence for this collaborative, values-based endeavour in learners and through engaged citizenship.