The special issue includes pioneering experiences across the world in the training of higher education academics in Education for sustainable development (ESD). The articles showcase good practice and illuminate pathways to address some of the current ESD staff development challenges. Some authors have considered common questions related to the development of professional capabilities or competences for educators, in order to advance ESD; others have centred their analysis on methods and approaches that support critical reflection and individual change; and, finally, some contributions provide evidence of professional development strategies that support the development of academic leadership skills and institutional change and learning.