Digital Platform for Ecological Education is the central topic of this scientific publication.
Abstract
Achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the European Green Deal (EGD) requires more efficient pathways that connect learning directly to real-world actions. This review introduces and explores a student-centered digital platform for ecological education that encourages knowledge sharing, collaboration, and practical implementation. Using a mixed-methods approach, we gather insights from existing literature and policies on SDGs and EGD to define core functional and governance requirements, which are then integrated into the ProSafeNet platform (the global hub for safety, security, risk, and emergency professionals and scientists). Its architecture brings together curated environmental issues across global, national, and causal layers; structured learning modules aligned with SDG/EGD guidelines; an embedded legal framework at various levels; and networking channels that guide students from identifying problems to developing solutions, culminating in standardized Project Solution Models. In the case study of ProSafeNet, these pathways leverage existing modules such as the Knowledge Base, Training Hub, Events/Forum, Projects, Research Hub, Community Resilience Hub, Policy Practice Lab, and Innovation Lab—allowing immediate testing without additional infrastructure. An evaluation framework is proposed, featuring key performance indicators such as learning gains, student engagement, team formation, prototypes or pilots, policy briefs, and progress toward SDGs/EGDs. The framework also highlights the importance of equity, accessibility, and GDPR-compliant governance. This approach aims to address the issue of “brain drain” by providing visible, credentialed pathways into green practices and funding opportunities, while fostering collaboration across institutions. Overall, this model offers a practical, scalable solution to accelerate student involvement in ecological problem-solving and support measurable progress toward SDG and EGD objectives.
Conclusions
By leveraging the capacity of formal education and a diverse range of high-quality higher education, a select group of students can be encouraged to develop as experts through informal education, specifically via a digital platform model for ecological education aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals and the European Green Deal. After informal education on processes, legislation, and areas covered by these initiatives, students’ innovative solutions to observed problems are reinforced. This approach empowers the group, who often face difficulties in applying their knowledge practically and finding employment. They should be viewed as an intellectual resource susceptible to the phenomenon of “brain drain” in search of opportunities abroad. Consequently, Serbia loses significant potential in its professional and innovative workforce. By providing opportunities and collaborating with this group, substantial progress can be made toward Serbia’s economic, environmental, social, and cultural development. The provisions, goals, SDGs, and EGD indicators create space not only for developing such an educational platform but also for ensuring the effective use of financial investments to address current environmental issues. Unfortunately, these problems continue to worsen daily and require urgent attention. The digital platform model proposed in this dissertation offers an opportunity to do so. With a systematic approach, success is inevitable, thereby ensuring Serbia’s progress in addressing pressing environmental challenges. This model supports the development and utilization of a digital platform that enhances students’ knowledge, facilitates networking, and informs decision-making in the environmental sector at the project, local, and strategic levels. All these initiatives—covering environmental improvement and protection, including the Sustainable Development Goals, the European Green Deal, and the Green Agenda—are interconnected. The initial step involves identifying the conditions necessary for developing a digital platform model for ecological education and networking among students, to create solutions to environmental protection and enhancement issues. It is essential to prioritize developing and implementing digital platforms for ecological education and networking to address environmental challenges and promote adequate progress towards the SDGs.
ProSafeNet (Global Hub) provides an immediate link from concept to implementation by hosting learning resources (Knowledge Base, Training Hub), collaboration spaces (Forum, Events, Projects, Research Hub), and execution interfaces (Community Resilience Hub, Policy Practice Lab, Innovation Lab). It allows active deployment of the outlined model without needing additional infrastructure. A pilot program, utilizing pre/post knowledge checks, engagement metrics (team formations, mentorships, event participation), and innovation indicators (student project portfolios, prototypes, policy briefs), can offer early evidence of success. This pilot also enhances student visibility, credentials, and opportunities for EU and national green funding. With GDPR-compliant governance and cross-border reach, ProSafeNet can expand its model beyond Serbia, aiding in retaining young talent and advancing SDG and EGD goals.
How to cite
Gajović , A., Cvetković, V. M., Renner, R., & Milašinović, S. (2025). Digital Platform for Ecological Education of Students – Advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the European Green Deal: The Case of ProSafeNet (Global Hub). International Journal of Disaster Risk Management, 7(2), 263-278. https://doi.org/10.18485/ijdrm.2025.7.2.14
