Do national economies in the EU behave towards economic growth or sustainable development under such a turbulent era? How can we teach “sustainable development”?

This paper investigates the economic priorities of European Union (EU) member states in a turbulent era. The central question is whether national economies prioritize short-term economic growth or long-term sustainable development. The concept of sustainable development, encompassing economic prosperity, environmental well-being, and social equity, is explored. The study explores how climate change, resource scarcity, and political instability influence the choice between economic growth and sustainable development in the EU. It seeks to uncover whether there are disparities in how different EU member states approach the balance between economic growth and sustainable development and what factors contribute to these variations. In sum, the study underscores the pivotal role of education in fostering a sustainable future. It delves into the question of how 'Sustainable Development' can be effectively taught to encourage a shift towards sustainable practices, with a focus on identifying the most effective metrics for measuring the success of such education. Lastly, this study underscores the potential for the EU's experiences and educational approaches to inspire emerging markets facing similar challenges.