Religious education for ecological sustainability: an initial reality check using the example of everyday decision-making

Abstract There is a widely accepted consensus that religious education, together with all other school subjects, should contribute to the goals of education for sustainable development. As result, theoretical models have been developed profile what specific contributions might be. However, question whether can achieve intended has not yet researched in more detail. More fundamentally, be able formulate realistic involves clarification students’ predispositions. In light these questions, author focuses on an ecological sustainability dilemma, so-called poplar and asks how students react this conflictive situation roles orientations play their responses. Analysis responses sample than 1100, 14- 16-year-old at secondary schools Germany Austria led conclusion over-reaching, action-changing environmental are probably beyond reach as single subject. Nevertheless, it becomes clear issues regarded by many spiritual questions therefore addressed focused way through education. The idea stewardship, which implies taking responsibility addresses both non-religious students, could particularly promising. Religious develop characteristic area translation between different motivations engaging stewardship occurs, where commitments sought.