Shifting from Pseudo-Compliance to Ecological Citizenship: Transformative Learning through the Waste Alms Program

Abstract

The plastic waste crisis in Adiwiyata Mandiri-predicated schools often stems from the limitations of instructive-regulatory approaches (top-down compliance) that only trigger pseudocompliance. This study aims to analyze the implementation process of the Project Citizen learning model based on Experiential-Transformative Learning specifically in the syntax of alternative policy formulation through the "Waste Charity" (Sedekah Sampah) initiative in transforming normative awareness into authentic ecological citizenship at SMP Negeri 2 Balen, Bojonegoro Regency. This qualitative case study involved Civics teachers, Class 9C students, the Adiwiyata Team, canteen vendors, and local waste collectors. Data were gathered through passive participant observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis, and analyzed using the interactive model of Miles, Huberman, and Saldana. The findings indicate that the disorienting dilemma of canteen plastic waste leakage was successfully transformed into bottom-up civic action. Through the "Waste Charity" program, students independently collected, sorted, and converted inorganic waste into a funding source for the school's Adiwiyata ecosystem (maintaining fish ponds and classroom gardens). This integration of spiritual values, circular economy, and community partnerships proved effective in shifting student disposition from passive sanction-based compliance to active, responsive, and sustainable ecological awareness. The study concludes that strengthening ecological citizenship requires a paradigm shift from external control to student participative empowerment.