Since its inception in 2019, the International Conference on Sustainability Education (ICSE) has been dedicated to unravelling the nuances and potential of sustainability education as a driving force for global transformation. Amidst the pressing challenges of increasing greenhouse gas emissions, growing energy crises, erratic weather patterns, and alarming biodiversity loss, the need for sustainability education has only intensified. The conference aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, advocating for a comprehensive educational approach that tackles the economic, social, and environmental aspects outlined in the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). ICSE integrates Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) as its key component and places significant emphasis on the target 4.7 of SDG 4 (quality education), which pertains to ‘sustainability education.’
Over the years, the International Conference on Sustainability Education (ICSE) has evolved into a significant platform for advancing sustainability discourse in education. The 2nd and 3rd editions, held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic, spotlighted pressing contemporary issues—ranging from policy frameworks to ecosystem restoration and climate literacy. In 2022, the 4th ICSE embraced the theme ‘Building Connections and Partnerships for a Sustainable Future’, reflecting the need to bridge gaps and rebuild relationships in a post-pandemic world, fostering a collective commitment to sustainability. Building upon this momentum, the 5th ICSE 2023 addressed the theme ‘Educating for Climate Action and Sustainability’, underscoring the rising urgency of climate action through education. This focus expanded further in ICSE 2024, themed “Greening Education for a Sustainable Future,” which highlighted the critical need to reorient educational systems toward environmental awareness and long-term sustainability.
Taking this dialogue forward, ICSE 2025 aims to delve deeper into the practical integration of sustainability in education and workforce development. "The 7th International Conference on Sustainability Education (ICSE) 2025 is scheduled to be held on 17th–18th September 2025 at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi.
This year’s theme, “Sustainability Education for Green Jobs,” emphasizes the vital link between education, environmental stewardship, and the evolving green economy. As the world confronts the challenges of climate change, transitions towards a circular economy, and the imperative of a just transition, there is a growing demand for a skilled workforce. This workforce must be equipped with the knowledge, competencies, and values required to excel in green jobs and actively contribute to a sustainable future".