Energy & Environmental Sustainability in The New Capital City of Indonesia: Voices of Junior High School Student

Abstract

Facing global challenges related to energy and environmental issues highlights the importance of the education sector playing its role in preserving the planet for future generations. Exploring students perspectives on energy and the environment aligned with education for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is crucial, as it helps shape positive behaviors towards the environment and energy conservation. Focusing on the perceptions of students around Indonesia's new capital city (IKN) is crucial, as they are the future leaders who will impact the sustainability and development of the city. Understanding their views and voices on energy and the environment can help in designing relevant and effective environmental education programs and policies to protect and preserve the environment in IKN. In this study, 400 junior high school students from three regions around IKN participated, including Penajam Paser Utara Regency (PPU), Kutai Kartanegara Regency, and Samarinda City. Through a questionnaire consisting of 17 questions, this study explored students perceptions of the energy and environment dimensions based on the SDGs. The results showed that students perceptions were generally at a moderate level. This study underscores the important role of education in introducing, raising awareness and understanding of energy and environment related to the SDGs by linking learning with development issues.