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Young people play a strategic role in driving the transformation of economic and agricultural systems toward sustainability. However, limited exposure to circular economy concepts and sustainable agriculture management often reduces youth engagement in these sectors. In response, thePunthuk Sewu Learning Center organized an activity titled "Introduction to Circular Economy for Youth" as part of its green vocational education and youth capacity-building initiatives.

2. Objectives

This activity aimed to:

1. Introduce the basic concepts and principles of the circular economy to young people.
2. Increase understanding of key forms of capital in sustainable agriculture management.
3. Encourage critical and innovative thinking among youth on environmental, food, and local economic issues.
4. Foster youth interest and engagement in sustainable agriculture and green entrepreneurship.

3. Activity Materials

a. Introduction to the Circular Economy

This session explained the differences between the linear economic model (take–make–dispose) and the circular economy, which emphasizes resource efficiency, waste reduction, reuse, and recycling. Participants were introduced to practical examples of circular economy applications in daily life and agriculture, including the conversion of organic waste into compost, the integration of crop and livestock systems, and the optimization of local resource use in environmentally responsible ways.

b. Introduction to Capital for Sustainable Agriculture Management

Participants learned that sustainable agriculture relies on multiple forms of capital, not only financial resources. These include:

• Natural capital (soil, water, biodiversity),
• Human capital (knowledge, skills, and innovation),
• Social capital (cooperation, networks, and community institutions), and
• Economic capital (market access and value addition).

The session emphasized the importance of managing these forms of capital in a balanced and integrated manner to ensure long-term agricultural productivity and community well-being.

4. Benefits of the Activity

The activity generated several key benefits:

1. Increased Knowledge and Awareness
2. Participants gained a clearer understanding of the circular economy and sustainable agriculture as practical solutions to environmental challenges and rural economic issues.
3. Shift in Youth Mindset
4. Young participants began to view agriculture and environmental sectors as spaces for innovation, creativity, and economic opportunity rather than as purely traditional livelihoods.
5. Strengthened Youth Capacity
6. The activity provided foundational knowledge that can support youth involvement in sustainable farming practices, green entrepreneurship, and community-based economic initiatives.
7. Contribution to Food Security and Environmental Sustainability
8. By building youth awareness and skills, the activity contributes to long-term efforts to strengthen environmentally friendly food systems and sustainable rural development.

5. Conclusion

Through the Introduction to Circular Economy for Youth activity, Punthuk Sewu Learning Center serves as an alternative learning space that nurtures environmentally conscious, economically empowered, and socially responsible young people. This activity is expected to serve as an entry point for increased youth participation in transforming agriculture and rural economies based on circular economy principles.