PROBLEMS OF INTEGRATING NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION INTO INTERNATIONAL EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS AND PROMISING WAYS TO OVERCOME THEM

Background: The integration of national environmental education (EE) systems into international standards (e.g., UNESCO’s ESD for 2030, SDG 4.7) is essential for addressing global ecological challenges. However, many countries, particularly developing and post-Soviet states, face significant barriers. Objective: This study identifies key problems hindering the integration of national EE into international frameworks, analyzes their root causes, and proposes viable solutions. Methods: A qualitative comparative analysis was conducted using policy documents (n=32), case studies from five countries (Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Germany, South Korea, Brazil), and expert interviews (n=15) with educators and policymakers. Results: Major problems include: (1) outdated curricula misaligned with ESD principles; (2) lack of teacher training; (3) insufficient funding and infrastructure; (4) weak interdisciplinary approaches; (5) limited digitalization. Root causes are historical isolation, low political priority, and institutional inertia. Proposed solutions: A phased roadmap including curriculum reform, mandatory teacher retraining, public-private partnerships, digital resource hubs, and regional cooperation. Conclusion: Successful integration requires systemic changes, political will, and a balance between global standards and local cultural-ecological contexts.