Sustainable environmental practices and cultural adaptation in Kampung Adat Naga: an ethnomethodological approach to landscape dynamics

Abstract

This research aims to examine how cultural adaptation and sustainable environmental practices influence landscape dynamics in Kampung Adat Naga (a traditional Sundanese village in Indonesia), using an ethnomethodological approach. The study seeks to answer the central question of how the Kampung Adat Naga community integrates their cultural values into sustainable environmental practices and how this interaction affects local landscape dynamics. The methodology includes participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis to explore the long-established cultural and environmental practices of the Kampung Naga community. The findings reveal that cultural adaptation in Kampung Naga, such as the implementation of agroforestry systems and traditional ceremonies, plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and environmental sustainability. Cultural values and sustainability principles meticulously manage the village landscape, not only preserving soil fertility and biodiversity but also reinforcing the community’s cultural identity. The study also revealed that the Kampung Naga community bases their understanding of the environment on a holistic perspective, viewing nature as an entity worthy of respect and preservation. The study’s conclusion indicates that cultural practices and environmental sustainability in Kampung Naga are inseparable and mutually supportive, making a significant contribution to understanding the relationship between culture and the environment in the context of traditional communities. This research underscores the significance of upholding and honoring local cultural customs in worldwide sustainability initiatives, and offers fresh perspectives for crafting sustainable policies in other traditional communities.

Keywords

• cultural adaptation
• environmental sustainability
• landscape dynamics
• ethnomethodology
• Kampung Adat Naga