Planting and Caring for Plants: Implementing Laudato Si’ in Small Actions

Abstract

Environmental degradation is increasingly demanding individual awareness to contribute to conservation efforts, including simple actions such as planting and caring for plants. This article examines the implementation of Laudato Si’, Pope Francis' encyclical on ecology, through small actions that individuals, especially students, can take to foster environmental awareness. This study aims to explore how planting and nurturing plants can serve as a meaningful ecological learning tool for children. The research method used is classroom action research (CAR), with data collected through direct observations and reports made by students. The analysis process is carried out through reflections based on the seven child modalities according to Romo Mangun’s experimental approach, which includes aspects such as courage, creativity, solidarity, and responsibility.The findings indicate that students' involvement in planting and caring for plants not only enhances their understanding of ecology but also develops their sense of responsibility and concern for the environment. Through reflections based on the seven child modalities, it was found that this activity helps students build character that is more conscious of the importance of environmental sustainability. Thus, the implementation of Laudato Si’ through small actions such as planting and nurturing plants has proven effective in instilling ecological values in daily life. This approach can serve as a simple yet meaningful learning model in shaping a generation that is more environmentally conscious