Integrating Light Pollution Literacy into Environmental Education in Elementary School
Luthfiandari (a), H R T Wulandari (a, b), K Vierdayanti (a, b), Aprilia (a, b), Y Yulianty (a), A T Handini (a), D Rosleine (c), A R Khalishah (c), A Simokar (c), L P P Wulandari (d), K Z Hasnaningtyas (d), W T Salam (d), F A Firmansyah(d) and C D Khalisha (d)

(a) Bosscha Observatory, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia
(b) Astronomy Research Group, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia
(c) Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia
(d) Undergraduate Program in Astronomy, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia

Abstract

Bosscha Observatory, the oldest modern astronomical observatory in Indonesia, is currently facing significant challenges due to the escalating light pollution from the nearby urban areas of Lembang and Bandung. The resulting skyglow has reduced observational capabilities, particularly for low-altitude celestial objects.

As part of an education-focused mitigation strategy, Bosscha Observatory, in collaboration with ITB^s Astronomy and Ecology Research Groups, developed a thematic light pollution education program for SDN Pancasila Lembang, a model school in the local network. The program is integrated into the Environmental Education (Pendidikan Lingkungan Hidup) subject, particularly under the topic of Pollution. Learning materials and activities were developed through interdisciplinary collaboration involving astronomers, biologists, teachers, and university students, using a contextual approach.

This program represents the first initiative to incorporate the issue of light pollution into Environmental Education at the elementary school level through direct collaboration with a scientific institution. It is designed to enhance students^ conceptual understanding while cultivating critical awareness and a proactive engagement toward environmental issues. The initiative is intended to serve as a scalable model for schools in Bandung and other major urban areas, contributing to long-term efforts in environmental literacy and the mitigation of light pollution.

Keywords: Light Pollution, Elementary School, Environmental Education

Topic: Public Outreach, Education, and Popularization of Astronomy