Embedding Bioeconomy Education: A Case for an Interconnected Curriculum. Leaving Certificate Curriculum Redevelopment – Economics Consultation Submission

This submission to the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) argues for embedding the bioeconomy as a central, cross-curricular organising concept in the redevelopment of the Leaving Certificate Economics specification. Prepared by the BioBeo–BiOrbic–BEST Network–CBEC Curriculum Working Group, the submission positions Economics as a strategic anchor subject through which a coherent bioeconomy framework can be integrated across Senior Cycle learning. A bioeconomy approach grounded in principles of circularity, regeneration, and responsible resource use supports the NCCA’s identified key competencies, including critical thinking, systems literacy, ethical decision-making, and active citizenship. It also aligns directly with broader Senior Cycle reform priorities such as wellbeing, inclusion, interdisciplinarity, and flexible learning pathways. The submission highlights that the bioeconomy offers a culturally relevant and context-specific foundation for curriculum design, drawing on the Irish language, place-based learning traditions, and Traditional Ecological Knowledge embedded in rural and coastal communities. Incorporating this framework enhances coherence across subjects including Economics, Climate Action and Sustainable Development, Science, Business, Geography, Engineering and the Arts, equipping students to understand the interconnected social, cultural, economic and environmental dimensions of Ireland’s transition to a regenerative and resilient society. The submission outlines a coordinated educational pathway that would empower learners to meaningfully engage with national sustainability challenges and opportunities.