This chapter aims to explore the potential of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in fostering an ecological civilization, with a particular emphasis on higher education. It will analyze the social and civilizing function of education, highlighting its latent potential to either perpetuate destructive worldviews or contribute to shifting to a paradigm that considers humans not only as social but also as ecological beings. While recognizing the necessity for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to train skilled and efficient workers, the chapter will critically examine how the excessive focus on professionalization activities within the higher education realm has marginalized the cultivation of relevant sustainability values. Additionally, while acknowledging cultural differences in worldviews, it will argue for the importance of reflecting on a minimum set of shared values for an ecological civilization, exemplified by the philosophy of the Earth Charter and aligned with transitory political agendas such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Finally, it will delve into how these values and principles can inspire transformative action in HEIs. This will be achieved first by exploring and example of action- and community-oriented pedagogical approaches that provide students with real-world experiences. Second, it will discuss strategies to build a robust community of educators who can guide students in acquiring sustainability competencies that embody the foundations of an ecological civilization.