ECOBRICK LEARNING FOR ECO-LITERACY: A CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK FOR GREEN ACTION IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Kristiani Natalina, Laila Rahmawati, Melinda Prawati, Wahyu Nugroho, Ragil Fadila

Abstract

Waste management issues in schools are increasingly concerning, underscoring the necessity for eco-literacy among students. As educational institutions face rising waste levels, it is crucial to provide learners with the knowledge and skills to effectively tackle environmental challenges. Education is vital in cultivating sustainable habits and a sense of responsibility towards the environment, promoting proactive waste reduction behaviours. Existing programs often raise awareness about environmental issues but fail to drive significant behavioural changes. Thus, there is a critical need for educational methods that not only inform but also empower students to actively participate in sustainable practices. This study introduces a conceptual model of eco-literacy-based waste management through ecobrick activities, targeting 39 students and teachers at SDN 4 Menteng. By incorporating ecobrick education—converting plastic waste into reusable materials—into the curriculum, the model aims to connect environmental knowledge with actionable practices. This approach focuses on experiential learning and active participation, positioning ecobrick initiatives as effective means to enhance eco-literacy and encourage sustainable behaviours among elementary school students in Kalimantan, while addressing specific waste management challenges faced by schools.

Keywords: Eco-Literacy, Ecobrick, Environmental Education, Experiential Learning, Sustainable Behavior