Language, Love, and Environment A Sociolinguistic Perspective on Ecological Discourse in Indonesian Local Communities

Abstract

This article explores the intersection of language, affection, and environmental consciousness within Indonesian local communities through a sociolinguistic lens. Drawing on contemporary scholarship in ecolinguistics and sociolinguistic theory, this study examines how linguistic practices shape and reflect ecological awareness in diverse Indonesian settings. The analysis reveals that local communities employ culturally embedded linguistic resources to express environmental concerns, utilizing metaphorical language, indigenous terminology, and affective communication strategies that demonstrate deep connections between human emotion and ecological preservation. By investigating the discursive construction of environmental relationships in Indonesian contexts, this article highlights how language serves as both a mirror and a tool for environmental advocacy. The findings suggest that understanding local linguistic practices is essential for developing culturally appropriate environmental education and conservation strategies. This sociolinguistic perspective offers valuable insights into how language mediates the relationship between communities and their natural environments, emphasizing the role of emotional and cultural dimensions in ecological discourse.