Promoting transformative education at WEEC 2026: a call for global action
The 13th World Environmental Education Congress, taking place in Perth, Australia, invites educators, policymakers, and environmental advocates worldwide to engage in transformative learning experiences that challenge and inspire new approaches to environmental education. Underpinned by the wisdom and traditions of Australia’s First Nations, WEECE 2026 offers a unique platform for exploring critical educational themes that shape the future of our planet. This year’s congress will highlight six thought-provoking themes that align with the global push for sustainability, justice, and innovation.
Connection to Country: Learning from Land and Waters
Rooted in the timeless connection to the land and waters held by Australia’s First Nations peoples, the theme Boodjar kep dandjoo emphasizes the importance of place-based education in fostering a deep, personal relationship with the environment. Inspired by more than 50,000 years of Indigenous wisdom, this theme focuses on two-way learning methodologies that bridge the knowledge of local communities with broader environmental education. Participants will explore how place-based education can nurture stewardship, community engagement, and environmental appreciation while promoting sustainability in the context of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.
Beyond Regenerative Understanding: Shifting to a Low-Carbon Future
The theme Natdjing maladjiny kadadjiny underscores the pivotal role of education in shifting economies towards sustainability. It offers a deep dive into how educational strategies can inspire the transition to low-carbon economies. By focusing on new, sustainable economic models, this theme will spark conversations about how education can empower individuals and societies to adopt practices that support long-term environmental health and equity.
Reclaiming and Revolutionising Education
The transformation of curricula and pedagogy is at the heart of the Karo wer moordoowin korangan kadadjiny theme, which advocates for decolonising education and integrating Indigenous, local, and traditional knowledge. This theme champions a revolution in environmental education, one that respects and promotes equity, resilience, and cultural relevance. By drawing from the rich diversity of perspectives, particularly from the Global South, it calls for a more inclusive and dynamic approach to learning that can better address the environmental challenges of today and tomorrow.
Inspiring Change and Empowering Agency
Under the banner Woola-woola wer moordoowin yang, this theme calls for a global reassessment of educational systems, challenging the status quo and encouraging a shift from conservative to innovative learning. Participants will explore how education can empower learners to become active agents of change in their communities, advocating for systemic transformations that foster creativity, innovation, and the capacity to tackle complex global challenges.
Decision Making and Sense of Justice: Tackling Climate and Social Injustice
Kadadjiny warniny wer moolyak-abiny focuses on the intersection of climate change, social justice, and education. The theme examines the global challenges posed by climate injustice and environmental racism, particularly in vulnerable populations in the Global South. It emphasizes the need for ethical decision-making and education that fosters critical thinking, equipping learners to confront issues of climate and social equity. By focusing on underrepresented groups and empowering ecological refugees, this theme strives to create a more just and sustainable world.
Power of Partnerships and Shared Outcomes
The final theme, Moordoowin-abiny dandjoo wer bwart yang, highlights the significance of collaboration across disciplines in achieving sustainable outcomes. It seeks to break down the silos that often exist within educational institutions, advocating for interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches that connect knowledge from various fields. Participants will explore how partnerships between educators, communities, and global stakeholders can drive collective action toward shared sustainability goals.
Many More Themes and Open Participation for All
While these six themes represent some of the highlights of WEECE 2026, the congress will cover many other crucial topics surrounding the future of education and sustainability. The organizers welcome input from all sectors and encourage participants to suggest additional themes they would like to see addressed. This is an open invitation to contribute to the global conversation and ensure that the diverse perspectives of learners and educators are included in the shaping of the congress agenda.
To suggest themes, participate in the conversation, or stay informed, individuals can sign up for the WEECE 2026 newsletter at www.weec2026.org. The newsletter will provide updates on the event, as well as an opportunity to share ideas and engage with the growing community of changemakers.
At WEECE 2026, attendees will not only engage with groundbreaking ideas but also contribute to the global conversation about how education can catalyze transformative change. By exploring these interconnected themes, the congress promises to inspire collective action for a more sustainable, just, and innovative future. Join the conversation today and be part of shaping the educational revolution for tomorrow!
