Project-Based Learning as a Strategy for Strengthening Ecological Literacy in Higher Education

Abstract

Ecology plays a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance, public health, food security, and the economic stability of society. Ecological literacy has become an essential competency in responding to global challenges such as climate change, pollution, and environmental degradation. Education serves as an effective vehicle for fostering ecological awareness by providing knowledge, skills, and values oriented toward sustainability. Nevertheless, higher education institutions in Indonesia still encounter significant obstacles in integrating ecological literacy into their curricula. Project-Based Learning (PBL) emerges as an innovative, student-centered instructional strategy that emphasizes real-world projects to enhance critical, collaborative, and creative thinking skills. Through a literature-based study, this research aims to elaborate on the potential of PBL as a medium for strengthening ecological literacy among university students. Findings indicate that PBL offers an alternative solution to overcome limited learning resources, improve ecological competencies, and cultivate environmental responsibility. Thus, PBL has the capacity to support sustainable education while preparing students as agents of change in addressing complex ecological issues.