Green Pedagogy for Sustainable Development: Transforming Teaching and Learning Practices

Green pedagogy has emerged as a transformative teaching–learning approach that integrates environmental awareness, sustainability values and holistic learner development within formal education. In the context of growing ecological degradation, climate change and resource depletion, education is increasingly expected to prepare learners for responsible and sustainable living. Green pedagogy emphasises learner-centred, experiential, reflective and interdisciplinary learning processes that connect learners with their natural and social environments. Rooted in constructivist, experiential and transformative learning theories, this pedagogical approach goes beyond content transmission and focuses on developing sustainability mindsets, ethical values and action-oriented competencies among learners. It attempts to conceptualise green pedagogy, examine its theoretical foundations, principles and pedagogical practices and analyse its relevance for teacher education and higher education in the Indian context. The article argues that green pedagogy is essential for preparing teachers and learners to address contemporary environmental challenges through meaningful, context-based and participatory learning experiences.