Sustainable development is an extensive theme that crosses the traditional boundaries of school subjects. It is an ambiguous and political theme that is oriented towards the future. Because the future has not yet happened, a great deal of uncertainty must be tolerated when debating it. Sustainable development also involves the challenge of encouraging pupils and students to be active citizens.
Pedagogy that supports sustainable development must take these special features into account. Well-working education for sustainable development is holistic and multidisciplinary. The topic is examined from the perspective of several subjects. For example, functionality and inquiry-based learning are well-suited to be part of the school's education for sustainable development.
In addition, it is important to relate the topics learnt to the learner’s everyday life. It is advisable to take into account the uncertainty related to the future and, for example, concern about climate change when planning teaching, as education for sustainable development aims to maintain a hopeful atmosphere.