Framework of Problem-Based Learning Activities with STEM Approach: Utilizing Plastic Waste with Ecobrick Method in Improving Students’ Ecological Literacy to Solve Environmental Problems

Plastic is a difficult chemical to degrade or decompose naturally, taking hundreds or even thousands of years for nature to break down plastic. However, the reality is that plastic is widely used in various human needs, from food packaging materials to automotive materials. One way to overcome plastic waste is through eco-brick or utilizing waste with plastic bottle media. Ecobrick is one creative effort to manage plastic waste into useful objects and reduce pollution and toxins caused by plastic waste. Teaching about eco-brick issues can be used as teaching material to improve students’ ecological literacy. Ecological literacy is a state in which individuals have good knowledge and attitudes about the environment and are capable of taking actions that positively impact the environment. However, the ecological literacy of students could be a lot higher. One of the reasons for this is that the teaching methods used so far have yet to bring out their ecological capabilities. Therefore, this study will apply problem-based learning (PBL) with a STEM approach. PBL is a learning approach involving a specific syntax combining STEM disciplines of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. This approach can improve students’ ecological literacy in solving environmental problems.