Sustainability

Within the Australian Curriculum Sustainability is one of the Cross-Curriculum priorities.
Sustainability addresses the ongoing capacity of Earth to maintain all life. Sustainable patterns of living seek to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the needs of future generations.  ​
"The Sustainability cross-curriculum priority explores the knowledge, skills, values and world views necessary for people to act in ways that contribute to a sustainable future. Designing solutions and actions for a sustainable future requires an understanding of the ways environmental, social and economic systems interact, and an ability to make balanced judgements based on present and future impacts. " (ACARA, 2024)

Each of the following outcomes can be explored in terms of how it relates to the marine ecosystem and its associated topics (see list below ).​

SYSTEMS
​
SS1
All life forms, including human life, are connected through Earth’s systems (geosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere) on which they depend for their wellbeing and survival.

SS2
Sustainable patterns of living require the responsible use of resources, maintenance of clean air, water and soils, and preservation or restoration of healthy environments.

WORLD VIEWS

​SW1
World views that recognise the interdependence of Earth’s systems, and value diversity, equity and social justice, are essential for achieving sustainability.

​SW2
World views are formed by experiences at personal, local, national and global levels, and are linked to individual, community, business and political actions for sustainability.

DESIGN

SD1
Sustainably designed products, environments and services aim to minimise the impact on or restore the quality and diversity of environmental, social and economic systems.

SD2
Creative and innovative design is integral to the identification of new ways of sustainable living.

FUTURES

SF1
Sustainable futures are achieved through informed individual, community, business and political action that values local, national and global equity and fairness across generations into the future.

SF2
Sustainable futures require individuals to seek information, identify solutions, reflect on and evaluate past actions, and collaborate with and influence others as they work towards a desired change.

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Ten topics related to sustainability and the oceans

1. Marine Pollution: Examining the sources and impacts of pollutants such as plastic waste, oil spills, and chemical runoff on ocean ecosystems. (SS2 SW1, SW2, SD1, SD2, SF1, SF2)
2. Overfishing: Exploring the consequences of unsustainable fishing practices and the depletion of marine species populations. (SS1, SS2, Sw1, SW2, SF2).
3. Coral Reef Degradation: Investigating the causes and effects of coral bleaching, ocean acidification, and other threats to coral reef ecosystems. (SS1, SS2, SW2, SD1, SF1, SF2).
4. Marine Conservation: Discussing strategies for protecting and preserving marine biodiversity, including the establishment of marine protected areas and conservation initiatives.  (SS2 SW1, SW2, SD1, SD2, SF1, SF2)
5. Sustainable Aquaculture: Evaluating the potential of responsible aquaculture practices to alleviate pressure on wild fish stocks while minimizing environmental impacts.  (SS2 SW1, SW2, SD1, SD2, SF1, SF2)
6. Climate Change and Sea Level Rise: Understanding the role of the oceans in regulating the Earth's climate system and the implications of rising sea levels for coastal communities and ecosystems.  (SS2 SW1, SW2, SD1, SD2, SF1, SF2)
7. Ocean Acidification: Examining the consequences of increased carbon dioxide absorption by the oceans, including its effects on marine life and ecosystems.  (SS2 SW1, SW2, SD1, SD2, SF1, SF2)
8. Plastic Pollution: Addressing the proliferation of plastic debris in the oceans and its detrimental effects on marine wildlife, ecosystems, and human health.  (SS2 SW1, SW2, SD1, SD2, SF1, SF2)
9. Sustainable Tourism: Assessing the environmental, social, and economic impacts of marine tourism activities, and promoting responsible tourism practices to minimize negative effects on ocean ecosystems.  (SS2, SW1, SW2, SD1, SD2, SF1, SF2)
10. Ocean Governance: Exploring international frameworks and policies aimed at promoting the sustainable management and conservation of the world's oceans, including issues of maritime law, territorial disputes, and resource management.  (SS2 SW1, SW2, SD1, SD2, SF1, SF2)