An ecological approach is not about teaching students about the environment, although important, it is a model of education that reflects the patterns and principals of ecology (Bajer, 2012). There are many key concepts and features that make up an ecological approach, eight of which will be discussed. Biodiversity can be defined as the variety of living things, including animals, plants and micro-organisms, found on earth and the way in which they interrelate (Young & Moore, 2010). A significant aspect of this interconnectedness in biodiversity is the way in which species depend on each other for survival and perform a vital role in the web of life (Young & Moore, 2010). The conservation, the act of preserving and protecting the environments …show more content…
As the world’s population grows, the environment faces ever increasing pressure of providing humanity with food and energy with resources being consumed at a faster pace than they can be replaced or in some cases becoming permanently depleted (Swinburne Online, 2015). Similarly, the ‘Ecological Footprint’ tracks the demands placed on nature and measures the human consumption of ecological resources (Global Footprint Network, 2012). Students having an understanding of one’s ‘Ecological Footprint’ and the role each individual plays in the earth’s sustainability, demonstrates to students how even the littlest changes contribute to creating a more sustainable future (Global Footprint Network, 2012). Merkel (2009) suggests humankind has the responsibility to take less and share more in order to challenge the current destruction, extinction and pollution occurring, ultimately restoring the health of living systems and creating a more sustainable future. Ecologising education will attempt to instil habits, values, beliefs, awareness, new ways of thinking, and skills in children to innovate and implement sustainable solutions (DEWHA, 2009). Therefore, EfS is essential to re-orientating the way one lives and works, transforming and empowering humankind to assume responsibility for creating a more sustainable future and becoming a sustainable society (DEH,