From Trash to Treasure: The Benefit of Adopting Eco-block as a Construction Material

Abstract The escalating global plastic waste crisis poses significant environmental challenges, particularly in developing countries like Indonesia, where waste management infrastructure remains insufficient. The durability and versatility of plastic have made it essential across various sectors, yet its non-biodegradable nature leads to long-term environmental degradation, polluting land, water, and marine ecosystems, and posing significant threats to both ecological balance and human health. This study investigates the influence of economic growth and eco-block adoption on plastic waste generation in Indonesia from 2020 to 2024. Using secondary data sourced from national waste management databases and economic statistics, multiple linear regression analysis was employed to evaluate the relationships among economic growth (EG), eco-block (EC), and plastic waste (PW). The analysis reveals that economic growth significantly increases plastic waste due to higher consumption of plastic-packaged goods. In contrast, the use of eco-block technology significantly reduces plastic waste, positioning it as a sustainable recycling innovation within the circular economy. This aligns with the goals of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), by promoting eco-friendly construction practices using recycled plastics. The regression model explains 95.43% of the variance in plastic waste, emphasizing the critical role of integrating green technology innovation into sustainable development policies. The findings highlight the need for policies that encourage eco-block use while controlling the environmental effects of economic growth. Investing in green technology, better infrastructure, and public education is important to help Indonesia grow its economy while protecting the environment.