Christopher Marquis: Sustainability in the Syllabus: Why Eco-Education is Essential Now

Education is a potentially powerful driver of sustainability; it can shape the leaders and changemakers of tomorrow. Business schools, in particular - traditionally a bastion of shareholder first thinking - have a unique opportunity to redefine leadership when they embed sustainability into their curricula. This week, our featured article explores how Cambridge Judge Business School Executive Education (JBSEEL) is integrating environmental and social responsibility into executive learning. Their journey toward B Corp certification highlights the evolving role of business education in fostering regenerative leadership.

Beyond business schools, sustainability education is making waves across various sectors. From the Wipro Earthian Awards celebrating student-driven eco-initiatives to the launch of Green Mentors Inc.’s U.S. office, institutions worldwide are prioritizing sustainability learning. Conferences and awards, such as the International Conference on Sustainability Education and the FT Responsible Business Education Awards, underscore the growing demand for integrating environmental principles into mainstream education.

Meanwhile, research continues to shape sustainable education practices. A recent study in Production and Operations Management outlines a framework for school feeding programs, emphasizing local sourcing, supply chain resilience, and community participation. This work reinforces the need for practical, system-based solutions in education that support long-term sustainability.

Let’s dive into this week’s insights and explore how education can drive regenerative change!

Featured Article:

Redefining Business Education for a Sustainable Future

Business schools have long been rightfully criticized for reinforcing profit-driven mindsets that sideline sustainability. However, as the case of Cambridge Judge Business School Executive Education (JBSEEL) illustrates, they can also play a role in shaping responsible leadership. In a recent conversation with Allison Wheeler-Héau, Interim Director of JBSEEL, and Matthew Walkley, Head of B2B Marketing, we explored why JBSEEL pursued B Corp certification and how this milestone reflects a broader shift in business education.

The certification process reinforced JBSEEL’s commitment to equipping leaders with the knowledge and tools to drive positive change. Beyond embedding sustainability into its curriculum, JBSEEL aims to influence corporate strategies by integrating environmental and social responsibility into executive training. This move highlights how business schools can serve as bridges between cutting-edge academic research and real-world corporate impact.

Looking ahead, JBSEEL plans to further reduce its footprint by leveraging technology such as AI and augmented reality to expand access to executive education without excessive travel. The school is also collaborating with Cambridge Zero to refine its curriculum, ensuring that sustainability is central to all its offerings. By aligning education with regenerative business principles, JBSEEL sets a powerful example for others in the field.

Essential Reads:

Sustainability Excellence

Indian technology company Wipro hosted the 14th Wipro Earthian Awards 2024 at Azim Premji University, recognizing schools and colleges for excellence in sustainability education. Over 1,500 submissions showcased innovative approaches to biodiversity, waste, and water conservation. The event also highlighted the ‘Ideas to Impact’ challenge, encouraging eco-innovation in colleges.

Sustainable Business Education

The FT Responsible Business Education Awards honor business schools that integrate sustainability and social justice into their curricula. Recognizing innovative teaching, impactful research, and student-driven solutions, the awards highlight the growing demand for responsible leadership in business education.

Greening Education

The 6th International Conference on Sustainability Education (ICSE), hosted by Mobius Foundation, emphasized greening curriculums for a sustainable future. Over 500 global experts discussed environmental education, circular economy, and climate action. The event aligned with Mission LiFE, reinforcing sustainability in education and policy for a greener world.

Circular Economy Education

The ECO-FUTURE project, an Erasmus+ partnership between Finland, Italy, and North Macedonia, developed educational tools to teach circular economy concepts to 6-12 year-olds. Using interactive methods like tinkering and non-formal education, it equips teachers to foster sustainability awareness and active citizenship among young students.

NICER Circular Economy

The NICER programme, the UK’s largest circular economy research initiative, concludes with a showcase event in Westminster. Featuring expert panels, keynote speeches, and sector reports, the event highlights four years of research and innovation, driving circular business models in tech, textiles, and sustainability.

Sustainable Agriculture Education

Environmental researcher Ademola Adegoroye highlights the need to integrate real-world agricultural and environmental challenges into education. His approach blends theory with hands-on learning, empowering youths and farmers with climate-smart techniques, precision agriculture, and circular economy practices to enhance food security and sustainability in Nigeria.

Research Corner:

A sustainable school feeding program requires more than just food distribution—it demands a resilient supply chain. This study, published in Production and Operations Management, presents a framework that identifies key internal and external factors shaping school feeding program supply chains. It emphasizes the need for localized resources, community participation, and long-term sustainability, aligning with the evolving approaches of the World Bank and the World Food Programme. By integrating supply chain management theory with real-world practices, the study offers insights into optimizing program delivery for lasting impact in development aid.

Quick Takeaways:

Sustainability Awards: Wipro Earthian honored excellence in eco-education.
Responsible Business: FT Awards recognize sustainability in business education.
Greener Curriculums: International Conference on Sustainability Education promotes sustainability in global education.
Youth & Circular Economy: ECO-FUTURE project teaches kids about sustainability.
Innovation Showcase: NICER programme highlights circular business models.
Smart Farming: Climate-focused education enhances food security.