Ecological Citizenship in Agricultural Extension: Strengthening Local Wisdom for Sustainable Food Security toward SDG 2 (Zero Hunger)
Kewarganegaraan Ekologis dalam Penyuluhan Pertanian: Memperkuat Kearifan Lokal demi Ketahanan Pangan Berkelanjutan menuju SDG 2 (Tanpa Kelaparan)
Abstract
Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) requires not only technological innovation and agricultural productivity improvement but also the strengthening of social, environmental, and cultural dimensions within agricultural development. Agricultural extension agents play a strategic role in facilitating knowledge transfer, promoting sustainable farming practices, and empowering rural communities. However, existing studies predominantly emphasize the technical and economic functions of extension services, while the ecological and civic dimensions of agricultural extension remain underexplored. This study examines the concept of ecological citizenship within agricultural extension and its contribution to strengthening local wisdom for sustainable food security. Using a literature-based approach, this study synthesizes previous research on ecological citizenship, agricultural extension, local wisdom, sustainable agriculture, and food security. The analysis demonstrates that agricultural extension agents can function as ecological citizens by encouraging environmental responsibility, community participation, sustainable resource management, and the preservation of local agricultural knowledge. Local wisdom practices such as traditional farming systems, indigenous environmental values, and community-based resource management contribute significantly to sustainable food production and resilience. The findings suggest that integrating ecological citizenship into agricultural extension can enhance the social and environmental dimensions of food security while supporting several targets of SDG 2, particularly sustainable food production systems and resilient agricultural practices. This study proposes a conceptual framework that positions agricultural extension agents as key actors in promoting ecological awareness, local wisdom, and sustainable food security. The study contributes to literature by expanding the role of agricultural extension beyond technical assistance toward a more holistic approach that integrates environmental citizenship and sustainable development.
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