National Education Policy 2020 and Environmental Education for a Sustainable Future

Various concerns like climate change, pollution, degradation of resources, loss of biodiversity, alteration of natural cycles, etc. are deteriorating our environment. In 2015, the UN member States adopted an Agenda 2030 of 17 goals and 169 sub-goals of Sustainable Development to address the environmental concerns and tackle the degrading environment. These goals are based on three dimensions, economy, social development, and the environment. A holistic approach is needed to safeguard our environment and meet these SDGs. Education plays a pivotal role in creating awareness among citizens. Besides the academic skills, the life skills are equally important. Therefore, imparting environmental education to students will develop a sense of responsibility among them, as they are the future stakeholders. Environment Education imparts the ability to make wise decisions while dealing with environmental problems. It will make students aware of environmental problems and introduce them to a sustainable lifestyle. Considering this, the National Education Policy 2020 made Environmental Education an integral part of the school curriculum. NEP made environmental education mandatory at all educational levels. NEP stresses environmental awareness inclusion for a better understanding and efficient management of environmental problems. The study proposed here focuses on the role of NEP 2020 and environmental education for a sustainable future.