ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE AND INCLUSIVE EDUCATION: PATHWAYS TO EQUITABLE SUSTAINABILITY

Abstract

Environmental justice places an emphasis on the equitable treatment of all individuals and the meaningful participation of all people in environmental decision-making, regardless of their socioeconomic background, ability, religious affiliation, or social class. Conversely, inclusive education aims to guarantee equal educational opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds and marginalized groups. It is argued in this research chapter that to foster a society that is both just and sustainable, educational systems need to address social exclusion as well as environmental injustices. This chapter examines the crucial relationship that exists between inclusive education and environmental justice. Students from all walks of life, particularly those who are disproportionately affected by environmental degradation, have the potential to be empowered to become active agents of ecological change through the incorporation of environmental justice principles into inclusive educational practices.