Recycling roads: A teacher’s journey in Malaysian preschools' eco-education

Recycling is not yet a common practice for everyone, but it is crucial for protecting the environment. According to the National Solid Waste Management Department (NSWMD), only 31.52% of Malaysians participate in recycling, which falls short of expectations. This figure is notably lower than the rates of other developed countries, which typically exceed 60%. These statistics indicate that Malaysia still has significant progress to make in recycling efforts. However, the nation aims to reach a 60% recycling rate by 2025. Although achieving this goal may seem challenging, there is a strong commitment to making it happen. This study focuses on educating young children about the benefits, challenges, and innovations of recycling. The study involved six children from a government preschool as the primary participants. To make learning more engaging, traffic road play was used as a tool to promote recycling. Data was collected through a qualitative approach within an action research framework, gathering both pre- and post-study information. The results were noteworthy, demonstrating how these children changed their understanding, habits, and creative approaches to recycling. Consequently, this study has contributed to greater societal awareness and improved recycling practices. Future research should consider expanding this approach by involving young children in public areas, such as parks, to deepen their recycling knowledge and foster a greater sense of environmental responsibility.