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NotesESSUnit 1
IB ESS · Unit 1 of 8

Unit 1: Foundations of ESS

Unit 1 of IB Environmental Systems and Societies covers Foundations of ESS. This unit contains 4 topics and 16 sub-topics. Below you'll find free study notes, flashcards, and exam preparation resources for every topic in this unit.

4 topics16 sub-topics
ESS FlashcardsExam technique guide

What Unit 1 covers

Unit 1 introduces the core frameworks of IB ESS — environmental value systems, systems thinking, feedback loops, and the concept of sustainability. These foundational ideas underpin every other unit in the course and are essential for structuring exam answers that integrate multiple perspectives.

Topics in Unit 1

1.1

Environmental systems

5 sub-topics

1.2

Models, Systems and Loops

4 sub-topics

1.3

Equilibrium, stability and resilience

2 sub-topics

1.4

Sustainability

5 sub-topics

Study tip: Work through the topics in order — each builds on concepts from the one before. Start with notes, then reinforce with flashcards and practice questions.

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