Abstract
<jats:p>This chapter examines the transformation of the physical education system in higher education in the context of global sustainable development goals and national priorities of the Russian Federation. It notes the limitations of traditional models of physical education classes, which are primarily implemented indoors and do not utilize the potential of interaction with the natural environment to develop students' environmental awareness. The aim of the study is to theoretically substantiate and empirically test the effectiveness of an innovative model of physical education that integrates the principles of sustainable development. The author's model shifts emphasis from a normative approach to the development of a holistic, environmentally oriented worldview, where concern for personal health is inextricably linked with concern for the environment. The methodological framework consists of an analysis of modern pedagogical approaches (the concept of «green» education, the theory of cumulative environmental risks, research on the ecological self-concept of individuals) and data from cross-sectional studies. The study involved 210 first- and second-year students, divided into control and experimental groups. The experimental group participated in a semester-long program developed by the author, which included regular outdoor training sessions (outdoor training differentiated by environmental conditions), theoretical lectures on the impact of environmental factors on health, and campus improvement projects. The results showed statistically significant improvements in physical fitness (endurance +14.3%, speed-strength +11.8%), mental well-being (+15.2%), and a significant increase in environmental responsibility (+40.7%). A direct correlation was found between program participation and commitment to a healthy lifestyle (r=0.782). A block model for transforming physical education is proposed, including target-based, content-based, organizational-activity-based, and evaluative-performance components. The practical significance of the work lies in the development of scientifically based recommendations for the implementation of adaptive, environmentally oriented physical education programs in the curricula of universities, which contributes to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3: Good health and well-being; SDG 4: Quality education; SDG 13: Climate action) and the implementation of the National Security Strategy of the Russian Federation.</jats:p>