Cultivating Eco-conscious: Project-Based Environmental Education in Building Environmental Awareness and Interest in Sustainable Learning

This study examines the application of project-based environmental education at MTs Unggulan Perwanida, Blitar City, in order to foster environmental awareness in adolescents aged 13–15 years. With a qualitative case study approach, this study explores how the integration of local environmental themes into an Islamic values-based curriculum through the Project-Based Learning (PjBL) model can shape environmental awareness and care behavior in students. Data collection was carried out through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation involving teachers, students, and madrasa leaders. The research was continued to analyze quantitative data based on student questionnaires. The results showed that project-based environmental learning encouraged active student participation in environmental preservation and strengthened cooperation. Quantitatively, it is proven that project-based environmental learning has a significant effect on environmental awareness and learning interest. This study concludes that this education model is effective in shaping sustainable behavior and contributes to preparing the golden generation of Indonesia 2045, who are morally and environmentally conscious. It is recommended that this model be replicated in other madrasas to strengthen sustainable education within a religious and contextual framework.