Powerful States and Environmental Education in the 21st Century: Challenges to Address and Opportunities to Ignite in the Face of Climate Change

Abstract

Purpose: Undoubtedly, Climate Change (CC) stands as one of the most profound challenges confronting the 21st century. Confronting its impacts is not an option; it is the only imperative. This study aims to analyze the nuanced issues that must be eradicated and the emerging challenges in addressing the ramifications of the CC roar, focusing on the profound responsibility of powerful states and the role of environmental education in an era plagued by a multitude of climate-related disasters. Methodology: To achieve this objective, a comprehensive document review is conducted, driven by reliable search engines, guided by the PRISMA framework. Results: The implementation of environmental policies, the ratification of international agreements, the strength of multilateral efforts, and the transition away from a fossil-based economy are central topics that powerful states must prioritize. In this regard, the battle is also shared by the potential of environmental education to prepare citizens for sustainable development, by incorporating environmental themes at the core of educational curricula, thus enabling them to solidify their roles in the face of one of the greatest threats of the 21st century. Conclusion: Both the State and environmental education are vested in formulating and implementing actions from their operational foundations, aimed at mitigating the impacts wrought by CC. Moreover, they must confront other potential scenarios in addition to providing responses. Recognizing and addressing these needs will be instrumental in promoting a sustainable path in an imminent danger zone with no return point, as driven by CC.