Sustainability is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, impacting our environment, economy, and daily lives. From the food we eat to the clothes we wear, our consumption habits have far-reaching consequences. As we look to the future, rethinking how we consume, produce, and manage resources is crucial to building a more sustainable world.
 
In this unit, students will explore the key challenges of plastic pollution, food waste, and fast fashion through the lens of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. They will work in teams to research real-world sustainability problems, analyse their causes, and apply user-centred design principles to develop innovative solutions that drive positive change.
 
Students will investigate global case studies, conduct root cause analysis, and use design thinking methodologies to ideate and prototype their own solutions. Throughout the unit, they will develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills, culminating in a final pitch presentation where they showcase their sustainability innovations.
 
Topics Covered:
Understanding Sustainability and SDG 12
Plastic Pollution, Food Waste, and Fast Fashion
Global Sustainability Solutions and Case Studies
Root Cause Analysis and Problem Definition
User-Centred Design and Market Research
Sustainability Audits and Feasibility Checks
Developing and Testing Prototypes
Pitching and Presenting Innovative Solutions
 
Links To:
 
Geography:
Investigate the impact of human consumption and production on the environment.
Explore global sustainability challenges and solutions.
 
Design and Technologies:
Apply design thinking and user-centred design principles to create sustainability-focused solutions.
Develop and refine prototypes that address real-world problems.
 
Economics and Business:
Analyse the economic and environmental implications of sustainable business practices.
Explore how companies are addressing sustainability challenges through innovation.
 
Digital Technologies:
Investigate how technology can support sustainability solutions.
Explore digital platforms and tools used to promote responsible consumption.
 
Sustainability:
Examine strategies for reducing waste and promoting sustainable consumption.
Evaluate the feasibility and impact of sustainability initiatives.
 
Personal and Social Capability:
Develop teamwork, communication, and leadership skills through collaborative projects.
Foster empathy and critical thinking in tackling global challenges.
 
What’s Included:
✔ Task Sheet with Challenge Overview
✔ 10 x Editable Slide Decks with Case Studies, Activities, and Resources
✔ Printable Worksheets to Support Student Learning
✔ 10-Week Unit Plan with Learning Objectives and Instructions
 
This unit is recommended for students in Years 8 - 12.
 
Licence Details:
Once purchased, this unit of work is available for indefinite use by the purchasing school. It cannot be shared outside of your school community or resold. To purchase via invoice, please email our team at info@bopindustries.com.
 
About BOP Industries:
BOP Industries is an Australian education company on a mission to inspire the next generation of young innovators. Having worked with 100,000 students globally, our team of innovative educators is passionate about creating future-focused learning experiences. To learn more about BOP, visit www.bopindustries.com/why-bop