Jakarta, INTI – Plastic waste continues to be a serious problem in urban areas, polluting soil and water, and posing health risks when burned. To address this challenge, Pelita Harapan University (UPH) has introduced an innovative solution: eco-paving blocks, environmentally friendly paving blocks made from plastic waste, cement, and fly ash. This program was carried out in Bencongan Indah Village, Kelapa Dua District, Tangerang Regency, with support from the Directorate of Research and Community Service, Kemdiktisaintek, and involved faculty and students from UPH’s Civil and Industrial Engineering departments. The initiative offers a solution to reduce waste while providing economic value to the community. With eco-paving blocks that are lightweight, easy to install, and meet strength standards, the innovation is expected to serve as a model for community-based circular economy practices. The program also targets community empowerment, enabling residents to produce independently, create new business opportunities, and raise environmental awareness.
From Plastic Waste to Economically Valuable Paving Blocks
Led by Dr.-Ing. Jack Widjajakusuma, Head of the Civil Engineering Program at UPH, alongside faculty and students, the innovation utilizes up to 25% fly ash as a substitute for cement. This approach not only reduces production costs but also adds value to industrial waste that was previously unused. The mixture of shredded plastic, fly ash, and cement produces eco-paving blocks that are lighter, easy to install, yet strong, making them suitable for garden paths, parking areas, and even walls. Jack emphasized that the innovation aims to encourage the community to produce paving blocks sustainably, gain economic benefits, and contribute to environmental preservation.
Community Outreach and Training
The UPH team conducted direct outreach and training for residents of Bencongan Indah, including plastic shredding techniques and eco-paving block molding using shredders and automated molds. The presence of these tools ensures consistent product quality and allows residents to produce independently without relying on external parties. Community enthusiasm was high, as participants not only learned technical aspects but also recognized the business potential of turning plastic waste into valuable products. “Plastic waste that is usually a problem can actually be transformed into a real business opportunity,” said Dadang M. Bakhtiar, Head of the Community Empowerment Institute (LPM) of Bencongan Indah.
Environmental Impact and Economic Opportunities
The program offers more than a technical solution it delivers tangible environmental and economic benefits. Previously accumulating plastic waste now becomes a marketable material, supporting circular economy practices within the community. Eco-paving blocks enhance garden paths, home yards, and simultaneously provide additional income sources for families. Priskila Christine Rahayu, Industrial Engineering lecturer, emphasized the importance of production and marketing management so that residents can turn this activity into a sustainable business. Moving forward, UPH plans to assist local MSMEs in marketing eco-paving blocks through social media and cooperative partnerships.
Conclusion
The collaboration of faculty, students, and the Bencongan Indah community demonstrates that plastic waste can be transformed into sustainable opportunities with both ecological and economic benefits. UPH’s eco-paving block innovation stands as concrete proof of the university’s commitment to developing graduates who are academically excellent, responsible, and capable of creating positive impacts for society and the environment.
Read More:Unair Students Turn Waste into Eco-Friendly Bubble Wrap and Win Competition