Sustainability Communication through Bio-Based Experiential Learning

Sustainability-related communication involving youth and children continues to be difficult to practice effectively and sustainably. This study examines how effective a particular approach to sustainability communication is at raising children's environmental awareness through an educational program. Participatory action research and storytelling as a narrative paradigm were used to examine the effectiveness of bio-based experiential learning. A total of 74 students (ages 9 to 11) from Bandung, Indonesia, participated in the program. Twenty parents also participated in providing feedback for the campaign on how to change their children's behavior towards the environment. The outcome demonstrates that the communication approach of bio-based experiential learning activities provides children with valuable education. The children are taught about urban farming, environmental awareness, and social responsibility. In the long run, it is hoped that children will be motivated to start an environmentally friendly business, particularly in biotechnology for the environment, to foster a sustainable city.