Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Sustainability” ESL Discussion Questions

I. Understanding Sustainability
1. What does sustainability mean to you?
2. Why is sustainability important?
3. Can you name three key aspects of sustainability?
4. How can we measure sustainability?
5. What is a sustainable resource?

II. Sustainable Practices
6. What are some examples of sustainable living?
7. How does recycling help sustainability?
8. Can you think of a sustainable practice at work or school?
9. Why is reducing waste important for sustainability?
10. What is sustainable farming?

III. Energy and Sustainability
11. How does saving energy contribute to sustainability?
12. What are renewable energy sources?
13. Can you name some non-renewable energy sources?
14. Why is it important to conserve water?
15. How can we use less electricity in our homes?

IV. Sustainable Transportation
16. What is sustainable transportation?
17. How does walking or biking help the environment?
18. Can you explain what carpooling is?
19. What are the benefits of public transportation?
20. What is an electric vehicle?

V. Consumer Habits
21. How can buying local produce help sustainability?
22. Why should we reduce our use of plastic?
23. What is a sustainable product?
24. How does second-hand shopping contribute to sustainability?
25. What does it mean to have a sustainable diet?

VI. Biodiversity and Conservation
26. What is biodiversity?
27. Why is protecting wildlife important for sustainability?
28. What is a conservation area?
29. How can we help endangered species?
30. Why are forests important for sustainability?

VII. Sustainable Communities
31. What makes a community sustainable?
32. How can communities manage waste sustainably?
33. What is a green space, and why is it important?
34. How can we promote sustainability in schools?
35. What is urban farming?

VIII. Climate Change and Sustainability
36. How is sustainability related to climate change?
37. What can individuals do to reduce their carbon footprint?
38. Why are oceans important in sustainability?
39. What is the impact of global warming on sustainability?
40. How does reforestation help the environment?

IX. Sustainable Economy
41. What is a green economy?
42. How can businesses become more sustainable?
43. What is corporate social responsibility?
44. Why is sustainable development important for the economy?
45. What is an ethical investment?

X. Global Efforts in Sustainability
46. What is the United Nations’ role in sustainability?
47. Can you name a global sustainability goal?
48. How can countries work together for sustainability?
49. What is an environmental treaty?
50. How does fair trade support sustainability?

XI. Challenges and Barriers
51. What are some challenges to becoming sustainable?
52. How can we overcome obstacles to sustainability?
53. Why might some companies resist sustainable practices?
54. How do politics affect sustainability efforts?
55. What are some misconceptions about sustainability?

XII. Future of Sustainability
56. What are the future trends in sustainability?
57. How important will sustainability be in 50 years?
58. What are some innovations that could help sustainability?
59. How can education help achieve sustainability?
60. What can we do now to ensure a sustainable future?