In this paper, we explore the perceptions of Iranian undergraduate college students of the concept of sustainable development (SD). In so doing, we measure students' attitudes and knowledge on the various aspects of the SD paradigm. The results indicate that while most Iranian students surveyed have a positive perception of SD, their attitudes and knowledge about it is linked to certain demographic characteristics. For example, Iranian female college students are more knowledgeable about SD than their male Iranian counterparts. Implications of these findings are further explored. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.