The book adopts a multi-perspective approach designed specifically to allow access to the topic from a wide range of educational and professional backgrounds and to develop understanding of a diversity of approaches and traditions at different levels. It features multiple entry points, explains jargon and explores controversies. It also provides wide-ranging boxed examples from the local to the global, extra readings and online material for course leaders, motivated students and self-learners.It is a new textbook that takes a multi-perspective approach to understanding 'sustainable development'. It covers all of the main topics and controversies in sustainability, explains jargon and provides a window into different ways of thinking. It is developed and pilot-tested for the needs of multi-disciplinary students, professionals and instructors. It features extra readings, boxed examples and web- based supplementary material. It is written by John Blewitt, co- developer of the MSc in Sustainable Development at the University of Exeter, UK and Director of Professional Development and Innovation.