China's Ministry of Education on Sunday issued a guide to
introducing environmental education at primary and middle schools,
making environmental education an indispensable part of the
country's education for young people.
According to the guide, primary and middle schools should not
only offer students knowledge on nature and ecology, but also
foster students' skills, attitudes and values conducive to
sustainable development.
The Guide to Environmental Education in Primary and Middle
Schools includes suggestions on activities for different age groups
and encourages teaching involving different subjects and discussion
in environmental education.
It also encourages field investigation of environmental
problems.
China began to include knowledge of environmental protection
into textbooks for primary and middle school students about two
decades ago as fast economic development affected the
environment.
But environmental experts say more efforts are needed to improve
the awareness of the country's environmental protection and
sustainable development, particularly among young people.
(Xinhua News Agency November 2, 2003)