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August 15, 2026GAIA - Ecological Perspectives for Science and Society

The case for theory building in sustainability science: An invitation from Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) research

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Authors

HKHelge KminekDFDaniel FischerMSMandy Singer‐Brodowski

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Overview

Conceptual review reveals an overemphasis on immediate problem-solving over rigorous theory building in sustainability science, indicating a critical need for deeper theoretical foundations.

Key Points

  • To examine the tension between applied problem-solving and fundamental theory building within sustainability science and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD).
  • Conducted a conceptual and methodological review evaluating theoretical development within Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) research.
  • Analyzed the scientific and practice-oriented consequences of prioritizing immediate action over foundational theory construction.
  • Identified three distinct tendencies in sustainability research where direct problem-solving eclipses theoretical pursuit.
  • Established strategic directions to strengthen conceptual modeling and theoretical rigour across sustainability and ESD research communities.

Cite This Study

Kminek et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a8019fe75c2e31742c8658bhttps://doi.org/10.14512/gaia.35.3.9
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