Abstract:

 Sustainable development can be considered as a way to organize society so that it can thrive over the long term which means taking into account both the present and future imperatives, such as environmental and natural resource protection, or social and economic justice. Sustainability of culture is related to sustainable development as it is linked to the protection of cultural beliefs, cultural practices, conservation of heritage, and seeks to answer the question of whether or not any specific cultures will survive in the future context. Culture facilitates environmental sustainability at different levels: via the inherent ties between cultural diversity and biodiversity, as a result of its impact on patterns of consumption, and due to its contribution to sustainable practices of managing the environment. Global cultural competence is an ability which is multidimensional, since globally competent individuals will explore local, regional and intercultural problems, consider and appreciate various contexts and viewpoints, communicate with others in a positive and respectful manner and take responsible actions for sustainability and collective welfare. It is argued that nowadays, the mission of education, language and intercultural communication, especially in globalized multicultural context, is to develop socially cohesive societies, promote multi-faceted public discourse aimed at preventing conflicts and, thus, ensuring more sustainable future. The need for further research into sustainability issues and urgent actions at all levels including international organizations, governments, and local communities is substantiated.