Topic: English for Specific Purposes | Sustainability in ESP
Presenter: Marcela Villan
Presentation details
As sustainability challenges increasingly shape the world of work, education systems are being called upon to prepare learners not only with linguistic proficiency but also with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions required to navigate complex environmental, social, and economic realities. This presentation explores how principles of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) can be meaningfully integrated into English courses, creating learning experiences that are both professionally relevant and socially transformative.
Traditionally, English for Specific Purposes (ESP) has focused on developing language skills tailored to specific academic or occupational contexts. However, emerging global priorities, including climate change, resource management, sustainable business practices, and social responsibility, suggest the need to broaden the scope of ESP to address the competencies demanded by a rapidly changing world. This presentation argues that sustainability is no longer a peripheral topic but an essential dimension of professional communication across disciplines.
Drawing on examples from English language teaching and sustainability education, the session will demonstrate how English teachers can embed sustainability themes into course content while maintaining a strong focus on language development. Participants will explore practical strategies for designing tasks, projects, and assessment activities that foster critical thinking, systems thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving alongside specific language skills.
The presentation will also examine how sustainability-related topics can enhance learner engagement by connecting classroom learning to authentic global and local challenges. Through real-world examples and adaptable classroom ideas, attendees will gain insights into how ESP can contribute to the development of future-ready professionals capable of communicating effectively and acting responsibly in their fields.
By positioning sustainability as a meaningful context for language learning, this session invites educators to rethink the role of ESP in preparing learners for both professional success and active participation in building more sustainable futures.
About the presenter
Marcela Villan is an educator, speaker, and sustainability advocate from Buenos Aires; Argentina, passionate about connecting language education with global citizenship and sustainable development.
With over 30 years experience in English Language Teaching, and an extensive, longstanding experience in Education for Sustainable Development, she designs meaningful learning experiences that empower teachers and students to create positive change in a rapidly evolving world.