Bridging the Knowledge-Behavior Gap: Translating Student Sustainability Literacy into Food Waste Bioconversion Action

Food waste generated from the National Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program presents a critical ecological challenge and a transformative pedagogical opportunity for vocational high schools. This study investigates the integration of food waste bioconversion into project-based learning at SMK Pembangunan Kota Bogor to bridge the knowledge-behavior gap in sustainability literacy. Employing an embedded mixed-methods design, quantitative data were gathered from a cognitive evaluation questionnaire administered to 243 tenth-grade students following an interactive agricultural seminar, complemented by a randomized complete block experiment (12 polybags) tracking chili plant (Capsicum annuum L.) growth across four organic fertilizer formulations (P0: NPK control, P1: MBG compost, P2: Eco-Enzyme 1:3:10, P3: synergistic MBG compost + Eco-Enzyme). The findings revealed exceptionally high cognitive understanding (>85% correct responses) regarding balanced media formulation (1:1:1 soil:compost:rice husk), microclimate requirements (pH 5.5-6.8, 6-8 hours sunlight), and macronutrient management. This cognitive foundation directly translated into behavioral action, driving an 82.0% reduction in daily student plate waste through mindful eating practices and daily composting duties. Furthermore, plants treated with synergistic bioconversion (P3) exhibited superior vegetative growth at 60 days post-transplanting, achieving an average height of 39.5 cm and 68 leaves per plant, significantly outperforming chemical NPK controls (28.4 cm). These results demonstrate that combining interactive seminars with experiential circular agriculture effectively closes the knowledge-behavior gap, fostering sustained ecological stewardship among vocational students.