What is sustainability? And what are its dimensions and opportunities?

Original: Was ist Nachhaltigkeit? Und was ihre Dimensionen und Chancen? Bundeszentrale für politische Bildung (BPB) (2014) . In: Aus Politik und Zeitgeschichte (APuZ) 64. Jahrgang · 31–32/2014 · 28. Juli 2014.

Pufé, I. (2014). Sustainability: Theory & Foundations (2014) BPB Federal Agency for Civic Education. Research project based on international networks and scientific studies.

“Why this work exists and what it changes in the reader’s mind”

Designed for public education, this 320-page standard work presents sustainability as a multi-level concept empowering informed citizenship.

“What is this about?”

The volume presents sustainability concepts at national, European, and global levels, including their integration into science, policy, and law. It translates the urgent challenge of sustainability into public understanding.

“Why does this matter now?”

By making complex knowledge broadly accessible, it strengthens public debate and recognizes individuals as active drivers of responsibility and innovation — activating knowledge where it matters most: at the democratic foundation of civil society.

“Who is this especially useful for?”

As part of the BPB’s mission to make complex political and social issues accessible, this book is designed for students, educators, and an informed general public. The book aims at students, educators, and all citizens seeking to better understand political and social developments.

“After reading this, you will understand…”

After reading, you know what sustainability means from the perspective of a leading public civic education institution in Germany.