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Darjo Felda, Mara Cotič and Daniel Doz
realistic problems and promote sustainable development (Akinmola, 2014;
Putraetal.,2022; Szaboetal.,2020).
This paper explores the pivotal role of mathematics in advancing sustain-
ability. Through mathematical modelling, simulation studies, and solving re-
alistic mathematics problems, students can develop skills that enable them
to understand, analyze, and critically think about sustainability. This includes
shedding light on the dynamics of ecosystems, predicting the impacts of hu-
man activities on biodiversity, and designing resilient urban infrastructures.
Mathematics enhances our understanding of environmental processes and
empowers decision-makers with quantitative tools to assess trade-offs and
devise strategies that balance ecological integrity with socio-economic de-
velopment.
At its core, mathematics enables scientists and policymakers to quan-
tify and predict the consequences of human actions on natural systems
(Kuznetsova et al., 2021), assess risks, and optimize resource allocation strate-
gies (Mordeson & Mathew, 2021). One key application of mathematics in sus-
tainability is through mathematical modelling. Models capture the dynamics
of ecological systems, climate patterns, and socio-economic interactions. For
instance, differential equations are employed to describe population dynam-
ics in ecosystems, helping researchers understand how changes in species
populations affect biodiversity and ecosystem resilience (Doyen, 2018). Sim-
ilarly, mathematical models of climate systems simulate future climate sce-
narios under different emissions trajectories, aiding policymakers in formu-
lating climate mitigation and adaptation strategies.
The main aim of the present paper is to analyze the aforementioned meth-
ods of teaching mathematics, specifically through realistic problem-solving
and modelling. Adopting these methods is paramount to promoting deeper
learning, understanding, and the acquisition of skills that are critical to sus-
tainable development.
Mathematical Literacy
The Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) definition of
mathematical literacy is the following (OECD, 2023):
Mathematical literacy is an individual’s capacity to reason mathemat-
ically and to formulate, employ, and interpret mathematics to solve
problems in a variety of real-world contexts. It includes concepts, pro-
cedures, facts, and tools to describe, explain, and predict phenomena.
It helps individuals know the role that mathematics plays in the world
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