This thesis focuses on the definitional and cross-cultural processes involved in the development of an environmental education (EE) database of essential learnings, and the potential of the product in improving the effectiveness of international EE. Identifying the universal aspects of EE is crucial because EE is an evolving field, and is international in scope and development. Many nations are instituting programs in EE and there are several multinational efforts underway. For nations to effectively work together, and for new environmental educators to avoid needless repetition, universal EE definitions are needed. The database analyzed is a combination of two parts: concepts and processes. It consists of over 630 entries coded by subject, educational level, objective, and type of content. Cross-cultural compilation and reviews by Indian and US environmental professionals were included in this definitional process. Included is a statement of the problem, a case study and analysis of the "Essential Learnings" database, and conclusions and recommendations. (Author/CW)