<![CDATA[Indonesia’s environmental crisis is shaped not only by ecological pressures but also by limited community involvement in natural resource management. This study aims to analyze how Participatory Learning and Action (PLA) can strengthen environmental conservation rooted in local culture. A qualitative approach was used through a literature review and case synthesis focusing on Subak in Bali, Sasi Laut in Maluku, and customary forest management among Dayak communities in Central Kalimantan. Data were analyzed thematically across customary institutions, knowledge integration, intergenerational learning, technology use, social inclusion, and implementation challenges. The synthesis shows that PLA strengthens communities’ roles as conservation actors through participatory problem identification, resource mapping, joint planning, monitoring, and reflection. Integrating PLA with local wisdom also connects traditional knowledge with scientific information and technology, supports intergenerational knowledge transfer, and creates wider opportunities for women, youth, and vulnerable groups to participate. However, its effectiveness is influenced by economic pressures, uncertain legal recognition of customary territories, facilitator capacity, and the risk of cultural commodification. Therefore, culturally grounded PLA can be positioned as an adaptive, collaborative, and context-sensitive approach to environmental management, provided that policies recognize and support local institutions and knowledge systems.]]>
