SBM ITB has begun testing five eco-tourism destinations and activity centers for local communities in Bandung. The initiative, launched on January 31 to mark SBM ITB’s 21st anniversary, is a collaboration with Circular Dago, a community dedicated to fostering a circular economy in Bandung.
The activities took place in the Dago and Babakan Siliwangi areas, involving SBM ITB and various local community groups, including Pokja Eling, Tanggulan Hejo, Dabaresih, Kampung Tjibarani, Kampung Serlok, and Sanggar Olah Seni. One of the pilot programs, SurGa Hijau (Susur Gang Hijau), saw around 100 SBM ITB academics and 50 Circular Dago members trekking 5.9 kilometers through small alleyways where local communities engage in sustainability efforts.
One of the key stops on the SurGa Hijau route was Bank Sampah Dabaresih, a waste management initiative where West Dago residents collect and sort waste for recycling and use as BSF maggot feed. Beyond waste collection, Dabaresih educates locals through training and awareness campaigns, making it a vital part of the SurGa Hijau tour due to its significant community impact.
The SurGa Hijau journey concluded in Kampung Serlok with the release of endemic West Javanese fish. ITB Chancellor Prof. Dr. Ir. Tatacipta Dirgantara, M.T., and SBM ITB Dean Prof. Dr. Ir. Ignatius Pulung Nurprasetio, M.SME., led the release of 250 endangered nilem fish back into the Cikapundung River, followed by the release of endemic birds in the Tahura city forest.
As a symbol of SBM ITB’s commitment to environmental conservation, the ITB Chancellor, the SBM ITB Dean, and their staff planted five rubber tree seedlings behind Sanggar Olah Seni. Rubber trees were chosen for their ability to prevent erosion, conserve groundwater, and lower temperatures.
“This collaboration aligns with ITB’s vision,” said Prof. Tatacipta Dirgantara. “I want ITB to be a leading university that makes a real impact, and SBM ITB is carrying out that mission.”
Prof. Ignatius Pulung Nurprasetio emphasized SBM ITB’s ongoing commitment to working with local communities and fostering sustainable partnerships between academics and the community.
Meanwhile, event committee chairperson and SBM ITB lecturer Melia Famiola highlighted SBM ITB’s role in initiating and connecting communities within Circular Dago. She noted that SBM integrates these efforts into student learning, community service, and research.
The 21st SBM ITB Anniversary celebration concluded with a People’s Party featuring traditional and modern performances by student art studios around the ITB campus. More than just a commemoration, the event reinforced SBM ITB’s dedication to creating a positive environmental and social impact.
