- Author: Dandi Supriadi, S.Sos., MA (SUT)
- From: Journalism Study Program, Faculty of Communication Sciences, Universitas Padjadjaran
Abstract:
The environmental conservation in Indonesia is in critical condition. Arguably, the issue has not been a major concern for most people. Even though various policies have been instigated by the authorities, either directly from the Ministry of Environment of Indonesia or through agencies under it, destruction and over-exploitation of natural resources still occur. Therefore, since the official regulation is not always effective, it is necessary to create good environmental communication strategies in order to increase public awareness about the importance of environmental conservation. This article is based on a research applying a case study method about the practice of using local wisdom as a means of effective environmental communication in Sindangkerta Village, Cipatujah, one of the rural communities in West Java, Indonesia. The study found that the existing local wisdom has been successfully used to preserve natural resource; either around Sindangkerta beach or in two natural forests belongs to the village’s territory. By conducting traditional approach and the diffusion of ancestral wisdom through myth and folklore, the community leaders have made the people of Cipatujah voluntarily participate in preserving the surrounding environment without the necessity to enact legal pressures and sanctions. It can be concluded that local wisdom is considered one of the effective tools in environmental communication, especially with its proximity to the local belief. Based on this study, it can be argued that the wisdom within the beliefs and myths are more influential in ensuring compliance among traditional society compared to the official policies and regulations.
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