SBM ITB hosted the Eling Earth Festival in Bandung on Sunday (18/8). This festival aims to enhance environmental awareness and concern among the public.
“Eling Earth is not just a festival, but a responsibility for us as business professionals to protect the planet. We invite all parties to collaborate in circular economic efforts, where waste is no longer a problem but can be converted into renewable energy that benefits the community,” said SBM ITB Dean Prof. Dr. Ir. Ignatius Pulung Nurprasetio, M.SME, during his speech at the festival.
The Eling Earth Festival is part of SBM ITB’s community service program, realized through the Circular Dago initiative. Bandung Mayor Ir. Bambang Tirtoyuliono, M.M., stated that festivals like Eling Earth contribute to environmental sustainability and support the promotion of Bandung City’s tourism. This is crucial as the tourism and service sectors significantly boost regional income.
“Especially in revitalizing tourist attractions such as Babakan Siliwangi, which is now a center for education and recreation,” said Bambang at the festival’s opening.
The revitalization of Babakan Siliwangi is a result of the Circular Dago program from SBM ITB, one of the festival’s main initiatives. Circular Dago aims to manage waste more sustainably, aligning with the Environmental Management System (EMS) course taught at SBM ITB. Through this program, SBM ITB seeks to encourage public environmental care and support creating a circular economy.
Deny Willy Junaedi, Ph.D., Secretary of Community Service from the Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM) ITB, commended SBM ITB’s efforts in environmental empowerment.
“We are very grateful to the SBM ITB team for their exceptional initiatives, including sending professors to the 3T regions to support local development. Initiatives like Circular Dago are concrete examples of applying social research to community service,” he added.
This year’s Eling Earth Festival featured the “Green Heaven” agenda. This Green Alley Tour activity invited participants to explore small alleys from Dago Tea House to Babakan Siliwangi. SBM ITB students are invited to see environmental conditions from various economic classes, by stopping at three points filled by environmental activists. This activity provides an opportunity for participants to understand the differences in socio-economic conditions in the area and appreciate the community’s efforts in protecting the environment
“The role of the younger generation is crucial in addressing future environmental challenges. Through their creativity, students must become agents of change and help shape a sustainable future economy,” said Melia Famiola Hariadi, Ph.D., Head of the Environmental Management System Course Teaching Team.
Approximately 300 students participated in the festival, many of whom felt fortunate to collaborate directly with environmental activists.
“We are always taught about environmental issues in class, but the opportunity to take real action is invaluable. Here, we can learn directly from activists and work together to create tangible change,” said Kayla and Nissa, SBM ITB students from the class of 2022.