Introduction to the materials
While the climate crisis is already included as a topic in upper secondary education across several subjects and levels, this material helps ensure that the biodiversity crisis is likewise taught, with discussions focusing on opportunities for action.
The teaching material was released in a revised 2nd edition in June 2024 and aims to provide students with knowledge and insight into the biodiversity crisis and its current status, as well as to analyze and discuss relevant individual and societal opportunities for action.
The content aligns with the objectives of the biology curriculum and helps students build an academic foundation to reflect on local and global issues related to sustainability and the environment, while also empowering them to contribute innovatively and responsibly to societal development.
The content of the booklets covers all aspects of the biodiversity crisis. The first booklet provides a description of the extent and development of the biodiversity crisis and offers potential solutions at the societal level. The second booklet explores the socioeconomic aspects of the crisis, while the third focuses on the connection between the biodiversity and climate crises.
The booklets thus provide an understanding of the significance of biodiversity for other species and for our own existence, as well as the consequences of biodiversity loss on Earth and, as mentioned, potential actions. Examples are given of cases where the negative trends have been reversed. The original booklets have already been downloaded by over 100 upper secondary schools across Denmark, as well as by several municipalities and organizations.
The new editions have been updated with the latest knowledge from sources such as the UN, the EU, and Denmark. They also incorporate new insights about the threat posed by the loss of genetic variation, known as the “invisible extinction.” Furthermore, they highlight that we have now exceeded 6 out of 9 planetary boundaries, with serious tipping points approaching. Additionally, the updated booklets highlight the recent surge in engagement from major corporations and the financial sector in the fight against biodiversity loss.
Input for all three booklets was provided by the project’s advisory group, made up by: Ditte Kirstine Nørtoft Nielsen, subject consultant for social studies at the Ministry of Children and Education; Ole Kunnerup, subject consultant for biology at the Ministry of Children and Education; Niels Vinther, subject consultant for geography subjects; Christian Rix, chair of the Association of Danish Biologists; and Pia Vogel, a social studies and biology teacher at Holstebro Gymnasium and HF. Additionally, the booklets have been quality assured by leading researchers from Danish universities. A description of each booklet and its corresponding quality assurance can be read here.
Any questions regarding the material are welcome and can be directed to the Danish IPBES office. We hope you enjoy using the material.
See also the video presentation of the material below: