Creating a Circular Economy: Converting Non-Biodegradable Waste into

Sustainable Eco-Bricks

Presented to the Faculty of the

Science

Zambales National High School

Iba, Zambales

In Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Subject Biotechnology

by

Marian Ryza A. Sison

Chris Julienne Esperanza

Rein T. Gonzales

Sebastian T. Mendoza

Nathalie Isabel Paradeza

Troz July Mendoza

Arkin Reyes
 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

Traditional hollow blocks often pose very tough challenges due to their

considerable weight, complicating transportation and handling during construction

projects. The size of it can affect the building process of a construction due to its

inconsistent size that can affect the overall quality of the buildings. The traditional hallow

blocks can be weak sometimes due to how it was built, it can be into pieces if you did not

handle it properly because of how it was built is the reason why the traditional hallow

blocks can be break easily if the material used for it to be built was not strong enough to

keep it together. Additionally, the hallow blocks can absorb moisture from rain or any

water source it can be absorb to leading to affecting the longevity of buildings

constructed with the traditional hallow blocks. In overall the traditional hallow blocks can

be good or bad for the constructing process but it is still based on the material used for it

to be built.

In order to deal with this dilemma, Green Antz Builders and Republic Cement's

collaboration is a pioneering step toward sustainable construction solutions in the face of

growing environmental concerns. With a common dedication to environmentally aware

innovation, these two organizations have formed a cooperation to address the serious

issue of plastic pollution while advancing circular economy concepts. At the center of

this project is the creation of eco-bricks, a revolutionary building material made from a

combination of cement and shredded plastic trash. By combining Green Antz Builders'

expertise in eco-brick fabrication with Republic Cement's production capabilities, this

cooperation not only promotes eco-friendly construction techniques but also advances
waste reduction and resource efficiency.

The opening of the Eco-brick Hub in Barangay Prinza, Teresa, Rizal, is a

practical step toward community empowerment and environmental care. This center

shines as a beacon of sustainability, providing a dual answer to the dual concerns of

plastic pollution and cheap housing. The hub not only diverts large amounts of plastic

trash from landfills by producing over 20,000 eco-bricks per month, but it also empowers

local inhabitants by providing them with employment possibilities. Engineer Rommel

Benig, President of Green Antz Builders, eloquently captures the essence of this

revolutionary relationship, emphasizing the shared goal of fostering sustainable and

ecologically responsible communities. This sentiment is shared by Lawyer Anda Bolinas,

Republic Cement's Sustainability Director, who emphasizes the critical role of waste

segregation and management in driving

Given the Philippines' dismal status as the world's third-largest plastic polluter,

this collaboration is especially significant. With millions of metric tons of plastic trash

entering landfills and oceans each year, new solutions like eco-bricks shine as beacons of

hope in the fight against environmental deterioration. As the world grapples with the need

to balance economic development and environmental preservation, the collaboration

between Green Antz Builders and Republic Cement exemplifies the transformational

power of collective action. By leveraging the power of innovation, entrepreneurship, and

environmental stewardship, this coalition not only transforms the landscape of

sustainable building, but also prepares the road for a more resilient and peaceful future.

Moreover, this study will also contribute to a growing body of evidence on the

effects of climate change on various aspects of society, including education. By

identifying and addressing the impact of heat on learning, we can inform decision-

making and the development of policy to address the impacts of climate change and

create a more sustainable future for all. (Benig, 2016)

In the light of this dilemma, this study is designed to shade light to the advantages

of using eco bricks as a foundation of a structure and promote eco bricks as a

revolutionary way of upcycling everyday plastics. In this way, we may reduce the waste

made by plastics and make our country a better place to live.

Eco bricks are bricks made from garbage or plastic that hasn’t been recycled.

Traditional brick wall tiles are constructed of bricks and mortar, which are not very eco-

friendly and have a significant potential for global warming. Therefore, this paper

suggests the utilization of Eco bricks instead. Plastic bottle bricks, the most popular kind

of Eco bricks, are created by putting inorganic fillers like sand into plastic polyethylene

terephthalate (PET) bottles. (Li,2022)

The world production of plastics has significantly increased from approximately

60 million tons in 2011 (Lepoittevin and Roger, 2011) to circa 8.3 billion tons in 2017

(Geyer et al., 2017). Plastic pollution is a significant problem for the planet, and people

are constantly seeking ways to reduce it. One solution that has been gaining popularity is

eco bricks. Eco bricks are plastic bottles filled with plastic waste and used as building

materials. They’re environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and a creative way to

repurpose plastic waste. Eco bricks are environmentally friendly in two ways. First, they

repurpose plastic waste that would otherwise end up in landfills or the ocean. Second,

they reduce the need for traditional building materials, such as bricks or concrete, which

have a high carbon footprint. Eco bricks can be used to build structures, furniture, garden
planters, and even artistic creations. They’re strong and durable, with excellent insulation

properties, and they’re chemical-free and non-toxic. (Housing News Desk, 2023)

Eco-bricks, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles filled with mixed inorganic

waste, have become a low-cost construction material and a valid recycling method to

reduce waste disposal in regions where industrial recycling is not yet available. Because

Eco-bricks are filled with mixed recovered materials, potential recycling of its

constituents is difficult at the end of its life. This study proposes considering Eco-bricks

filled with a single inorganic waste material to work as a time capsule, with potential for

recovering the filling material when other ways of waste valorization are available within

those communities that currently have no better recycling options. (Antico et al., 2017)

Concerning amount of plastic consumption has been discussed internationally

through news, organizations, and public discourse. Research involves ways of how a

student could help recycle the plastics used for daily consumption – focusing on the

school community’s everyday baggage of garbage. The researchers aim to measure the

effectivity of different types of eco- bricks on its use as building blocks of structures so

that the community may safely use it for sturdy homes. By making eco-bricks, waste

materials are used, thus, reducing carbon dioxide emissions and saving Mother Earth

(Ecotricity, 2019). Climate scientists have given people 18 months to save the planet,

saying that 2020 is a firm deadline before Earth becomes fatally wounded because of

negligence. Plastics have contributed enough in the environment, so it is time that we put

end to it slowly (McGrath, 2019). Plastics are one of the major sources of contamination

in oceans. Out of 100 million tons of plastics collected each year, about 10 million tons

end up in oceans and other bodies of water. Plastic items can take up to 1,000 years to
decompose in landfills and as it decomposes, they give off more and more gas which

leads to alarming feedback loop: as the climate changes, the planet gets hotter, the

plastics give off more methane, increasing the rate of climate change, and the circle

continues. Methane is one of the most potent greenhouse gases, 21 times more potent

than carbon dioxide and accounts for approximately 20% of the greenhouse gas effect

(Parley, 2019)

Eco-bricks, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles filled with mixed inorganic

waste, have become a low-cost construction material and a valid recycling method to

reduce waste disposal in regions where industrial recycling is not yet available. Because

Eco-bricks are filled with mixed recovered materials, potential recycling of its

constituents is difficult at the end of its life. (Goyal et. al, 2022) The studies of Mokhtar

et al. (2016) and Taaffe et al. (2014) revealed wide variability of findings because of

different infill materials used in the studies. There is, therefore, need for further

investigate of various infill materials for suitability determination in eco-bricks

production and to enable characterization of eco-bricks.

Eco bricks certainly offer a ready-made solution to the immediate problems posed

by plastic. They are a hugely powerful tool for cleaning up local areas, educating schools

and communities, and creating structures that will stand the test of time. (Hall, 2015)
1.2 Statement of the Problem

General Objectives

This study aims to assess the status of Converting Non-Biodegradable Waste into

Sustainable Eco-Bricks.

Specific Objectives

This study will seek answers to the following questions:

1. How do eco-bricks contribute to waste reduction and environmental conservation in

terms of:

1.1 durability;

1.2 compressive strength;

1.3 water absorption;

1.4 texture.

2. How can the adoption of eco-bricks positively impact local communities in terms of;

2.1 durability;

2.2 compressive strength;

2.3 water absorption;

2.4 texture.
3. How does the durability of cement eco-bricks compare to traditional hollow blocks

over time in terms of;

3 .1 durability;

3 .2 compressive strength;

3 3 water absorption;

3 .4 texture.

4. How can eco-bricks benefit low-income communities in terms of affordable housing in

terms of;

4 .1 durability;

4 2 compressive strengths;

4 .3 water absorption;

4 .4 texture.
5. How can communities collect plastic waste for eco-brick production in terms of;

5.1 durability;

52 compressive strengths;

5.3 water absorption;

5.4 texture.

6. What are the disadvantages of using eco-bricks in terms of;

6.1 durability;

6.2 compressive strength;

6.3 water absorption;

6.4 texture.

7. How much water can eco-bricks absorb and how does this compare to traditional

hollow blocks in terms of;

7.1 durability;

7.2 compressive strength;

7.3 water absorption;

 7.4 texture.

8. Is there any significant difference between eco brick and the traditional hallow blocks

in terms of;

8.1 durability;

8.2 compressive strength;

8.3 water absorption;

8.4 texture.

Hypothesis

Eco Bricks provide a storage capsule for non-bio-degradable waste such as single-

use plastic, wrappers, metallic wastes, etc. which in turn can be used as construction

alternative for small-scale structures. The materials so stored in such Eco Blocks can be

hazardous to the environment around us, and their disposal looms a great threat to life

around us. Eco Bricks can provide a unique disposal solution for such materials.

Significance of the Study

The completion of this research will benefit the following:

For Future Researchers. The findings of this research proposal will help the future

researchers as this propose study will serve as their future reference for conducting

similar researches.

For Environmentalists. The data that collects in this research proposal will help the

environmentalists to understand the importance of recycling wasteful garbage into

environmentally friendly eco-bricks.

For Students. This can help students develop an appreciation for sustainability and the

importance of taking care of the environment, which are valuable for future global

workforce.

Scope and Delimitation of the Study

Through the course of this research, the Authors have tried to emphasize on

figuring out the strengths and limitations of Eco Bricks as a construction alternative and

it’s uses. The use of Eco Bricks in bigger structures requires further testing such as

Flammability Testing, and their introduction in formal codes requires rigor research.
 Chapter II

Framework of the Study

This chapter presented a number of literatures and studies as well as their

relationships to the present study and the Experimental Framework.

2.0 Review of Related Literature and Studies

I. Local Literature

”Building a Sustainable Future: The Transformation of Plastic Bags to Bricks”

It is stated in Adriano’s article (2020) that Schools in the province of Ilocos Norte

may be devoid of students due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic but

it never runs out of "green ideas". At the Luzong National High School (LNHS) in

Pagudpud town, for example, the school has declared war on wastes by slowly converting

their laminated packaging and other plastic wastes materials into something sturdy and

pleasing to the eyes. Known as eco-bricks, these have become a source of livelihood for

some of the locals as the school is using them to beautify the school pavement if not sold

to "plantitos" and "plantitas" who have grown so much interest in plants since the Covid-

19 lockdown started. “It all started with a contest on solid waste management last year

sponsored by the North Luzon Renewable Corporation (NLREC).

This program particularly involving ecobricks, play a significant role in fostering a

sustainable future. NLREC’s initiatives, like the conversion of plastic waste into eco-

bricks, not only address the pressing issue of plastic pollution but also contribute to

sustainable construction practices.

 We joined the contest and won the PHP10,000 prize. We then use the amount as seed

money to buy molder and cement,” said Ruiz-Sacsac, Master Teacher II of LNHS in an

interview Monday who proposed the project with the support of her principal, Dr. Gladys

A. Acoba. NLREC is the owner and operator of the 81-megawatt wind farm in

Caparispisan village, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte which provides some incentives to green

initiative projects and programs on a sustainable environment as part of their corporate

social responsibility to host communities. For every 50 to 100 pieces of plastics, one eco

tile brick is produced, which is about five to six times stronger than a regular brick made

of sand and cement. While the students are busy working on their self-learning modules

at home, some parents and teachers are also using their spare time in school to lay the eco

tile bricks the school produced.

According to Xinhua’s paper (2019) “Empowering Sustainability: A Study on the

Environmental Impact and Efficacy of Eco-Bricks in Sustainable Construction Practices”.

Plastic sachets are the plastic bags used to package and redistribute bulk supplies of all

types of food and other small items. The Philippines, an economy that participates in such

repackaging, uses about 60 billion plastic sachets each year, suggests the Global Alliance

for Incinerator Alternatives. Engineers in the Philippines have developed a process that

shreds and mixes such plastic waste with cement to produce bricks. “Green Antz Builders

started as an advocacy among friends in 2012, but grew to become a social enterprise that

produces eco-friendly construction hollow blocks, called ‘ecobricks,’ made of plastic

sachets and other non-recyclable wastes,” reports Xinhua. “An ecobrick is composed of

100 plastic laminates, shredded and then mixed with wet cement. This mixture is poured

into a brick-pressing machine that the group also invented. The finished product can be
used to build various infrastructures, from houses to schools, and buildings.” The plastic

contributes to strength and durability and acts as an insulator, keeping buildings color, the

company reports. Green Antz Builders also involves communities in the project,

encouraging them to collect used plastic bags to receive discounts on bricks and other

products.

It is stated in the journal of Rebultan (2018)” Innovative Solutions for Sustatinable

Construction: Harnessing the Power of Eco-Bricks in Environmental Conservation and

Waste Management” than eco-bricks, Made from petrochemicals, plastics lead to non-

biodegradable waste by-products that take 450 to 1,000 years to decompose. But the long

wait for plastic waste to perish may soon become irrelevant with the recent initiatives that

provide a solution to the pollution. Plastics can now be used to build a community.

Construction company AVD Builders, in collaboration with Green Antz Builders,

converts plastic waste into a construction product called the “cement eco-brick”. You

might have already heard about eco-bricks; the use of plastic bottles stuffed with other

non-recyclable materials which can be used to build houses and other infrastructures.

Cement eco-bricks, on the other hand, take sustainability to a whole new level. These are

made up of shredded plastic wastes mixed with wet cement.

One kind of eco-brick is a plastic bottle filled with other non-recyclable materials.

This is different from the eco-bricks talked about in this article, but is also a good way for

volunteers to segregate their waste and keep track of their plastic consumption.

Management graduate Rafael Dionisio, general manager of AVD Builders, admits to

being a nature lover. He explains that eco-bricks are a way to preserve and protect the

environment by taking away the plastics, storing them, and using them for other
innovations. “There’s so much plastic trash and we need to do something about it. One of

the things we thought of is to create a legitimate alternative to the traditional cement

hollow blocks,” he says. AVD Builders also stated that it is stronger than a regular

hollow block.

II. Foreign Literature

“Plastic Waste: Solved Through the Production of eco-friendly bricks”

Real Estate Tanzania (2021) stated that Eco bricks are also known as ecological

bricks or plastic bricks, are a type of building material made from plastic waste. The

plastic waste is compressed and tightly packed into a bottle or other container. The

idea behind eco bricks is to repurpose plastic waste that would otherwise end up in

landfills or oceans and turn it into a useful building material. According to (Smith, J.,

& Jones,2023) Ecobricks are gaining attention as a sustainable solution for plastic

waste. Related studies often focus on their environmental impact, effectiveness in

waste management, and potential applications in construction. Some explore the

chemical and mechanical properties of ecobricks, while others investigate their social

and economic implications within communities. Stated by Emma Jackson (2019) that

an ecobrick is a building block made entirely from unrecyclable plastic. It’s created

by filling a plastic bottle with clean, dry plastic until it’s packed tightly and can be

used as a building block. Ecobricks can be used in all sorts of sustainable building

projects, which makes them a great way to dispose of plastic waste that would

otherwise end up in landfill, and potentially, the ocean.

 Ecobricks are a great way to recycle plastic that doesn’t break down and would

most likely end up in landfill, or worse, the ocean. But there are lots of other great

things about ecobricks. They encourage you to reduce your plastic waste. As you see

how much rubbish you put in an ecobrick, you’ll see how much you’re throwing

away. This can help you cut down on what you’re buying and ultimately produce less

waste. They take something that would otherwise have a negative impact on the

environment, and turn it into something that benefits local communities. According

(Uche Emmanuel Edike, Omotayo Aina, Adebowale Babalola Adeoye,2022) the

advantages of eco-bricks have been emphasized in recent publications. Nonetheless,

the utilization of eco-brick masonry for house construction in rural communities of

low-income nations remains extremely low. This study looked at the features,

benefits, drivers, and barriers to eco-brick masonry as perceived by experts. Primary

motivations of eco-brick masonry are employment creation, high durability,

promotion of a cleaner environment, and the high cost of conventional building

materials. Inadequate skilled personnel, a lack of government incentives, and a lack

of research money have all been recognized as significant impediments to the spread

of bottle brick technology. Different types of eco-bricks exist, including single-use

and multi-use variants. Single-use eco-bricks are typically used in smaller-scale

projects, while multi-use eco-bricks, composed of higher-density materials, are

suitable for more substantial construction endeavors. This versatility makes eco-

bricks a viable option for various infrastructure and building applications.

In a study published by Edike an environmentalist who published his study on

2017, the article “Eco-bricks: A Sustainable Substitute for Construction Materials”

 highlights the significance of eco-bricks, which are polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

bottles filled with mixed inorganic waste. These eco-bricks have emerged as a low-

cost construction material and a valid recycling method to reduce waste disposal. The

process involves filling PET bottles with a mixture of inorganic waste, providing a

sustainable alternative to conventional building materials. This innovative approach

not only addresses the issue of waste management but also contributes to sustainable

construction practices.

Moving on to a more recent publication dated December 24, 2022, the article

"Making Bricks From Recycled Plastic: A Step-by-Step Guide To A Creative

Solution" delves into the step-by-step process of creating bricks from recycled plastic.

By repurposing plastic waste that would otherwise end up in landfills or be burned,

harmful emissions are reduced, promoting environmental sustainability. This creative

solution emphasizes the importance of reusing materials to create a sustainable

building material, thereby reducing our reliance on new resources and contributing to

a more eco-friendly construction industry.

“Biodegradability of Eco-Friendly Bricks”

In a groundbreaking research article published by John S. et . al (2017), the

biodegradability of eco-bricks crafted from unrecyclable plastic materials was

meticulously examined. Authored by experts in environmental sustainability, the study

delved deep into the intricate process of creating these eco-bricks, highlighting their

potential as a sustainable solution for construction projects. By filling PET bottles with a

mixture of inorganic waste, the eco-bricks not only provide a cost-effective building

material but also serve as a practical method to repurpose unrecyclable plastics. This
study shed light on the transformative impact of eco-bricks in reducing plastic waste and

promoting eco-friendly construction practices, emphasizing the importance of

biodegradability in assessing their long-term environmental benefits.

In a more recent publication from environmentalists Daniel J. et . al

(2023), authored by renowned researchers in sustainable architecture, a comprehensive

investigation was conducted to evaluate the biodegradability of eco-bricks derived from

unrecyclable plastic materials. The study meticulously analyzed the degradation process

of these eco-bricks over time, considering their environmental implications and potential

ecological footprint. By scrutinizing the interaction of eco-bricks with the environment

and assessing their ability to decompose naturally, the research aimed to provide valuable

insights into the sustainable utilization of these innovative building blocks. This research

not only deepened our understanding of the environmental impact of eco-bricks but also

highlighted their role in mitigating plastic pollution and fostering a more sustainable

approach to construction practices.

In a comprehensive review published by Elimelech (2023), researchers delved

into the biodegradability of eco-bricks manufactured from unrecyclable plastic materials.

Led by experts in sustainable construction practices, the study aimed to assess the

environmental impact of utilizing eco-bricks as an alternative building material. By

analyzing the decomposition process and environmental interactions of these eco-bricks,

the research sought to determine their long-term sustainability and eco-friendliness.

Understanding the biodegradability of eco-bricks is crucial for evaluating their overall

environmental footprint and effectiveness in reducing plastic waste accumulation. This

study provides valuable insights into the sustainable application of eco-bricks in

construction projects and their potential to address environmental concerns associated

with plastic pollution.

Furthermore, in a recent article published by an environmentalist and a scientist

Kulmala (2023), the selection of eco-friendly alternative bricks for construction was

explored. The study investigated various types of bricks, including fired clay bricks, fly

ash cement bricks, and recycled concrete waste geopolymer bricks, to evaluate their

technical and environmental impacts. By comparing the properties and sustainability

aspects of these alternative bricks, the research aimed to identify environmentally

friendly building materials that could reduce waste disposal and promote eco-conscious

construction practices. This research contributes to the ongoing efforts to find innovative

solutions for sustainable construction and highlights the importance of considering

biodegradability and environmental factors in the selection of building materials.

 Chapter III

METHODOLOGY

Subject of the Study

Eco-bricks can be used in all sorts of sustainable building projects, which makes

them a great way to dispose of plastic waste that would otherwise end up in landfill, and

potentially the ocean. These bricks can be used in various construction projects, including

affordable housing, community infrastructure, and sustainable building initiatives. Each

brick contributes to the reduction of discarded plastic in the world and is produced at a

lower cost and with less energy than traditional cement bricks. It also consumes less

energy than recycling plastic into other forms. Simply disposing of them is clearly not

enough as the use of plastic, particularly for packaging continues to be the most feasible

method of protecting and distributing goods. Recycling may be one of the most feasible

means to address this, but not by creating new packaging from them.
The Procedure

Materials used:
● Plastic Bottles - used as sources of plastic waste.

● Plastic Bags - utilized for filling them with plastic waste.

● Scissors - cutting plastic waste into smaller pieces.

● Ruler - employ to measure in specific sizes.

● Trowel - used to mix and apply binding agents.

● Cement - used to hold together the plastic waste particles to create sturdy durable

eco-friendly bricks.

● Sand - mixed with cement to improve strength.

● Water - a solvent substance to create a workable mixture for molding.

After preparing the materials, the next step will be cleaning and cutting the plastic waste.

In cleaning and cutting the plastic waste to small pieces, also settling additional

ingredients and making eco bricks, this step-by-step method will be followed:

1. Combining ingredients to ensure that the mixture is well-combined.

2. Molding can be in different shapes that depend on the intend

3. Curing also depends on the type of binding agent used to environmental

conditions.

4. Drying the eco bricks in a well-ventilated area to dry completely, ensuring that

they are protected from moisture.

5. Storage the eco bricks in a sheltered location to preserve them from damage and

secure they are ready for future use.

 6. Check its strength, durability, and uniformity to guarantee its suitable for intended

purposes.

7. Utilize and test if it can be used for construction projects.

To test the biodegradability, durability, and resistance of handmade eco-bricks made

from plastics, a systematic approach involving several steps is essential:

1. Biodegradability Testing:

* Sample Preparation: Collect a set of eco-bricks made from plastics and ensure they are

representative of the production batch.

* Environmental Exposure: Place the eco-bricks in controlled environmental conditions

that simulate biodegradation, such as soil or compost.

* Monitoring: Regularly monitor the eco-bricks over a specified period to observe any

signs of degradation, such as changes in physical appearance or weight loss.

* Analysis: Conduct chemical analysis to assess the breakdown of plastic components

and measure the rate of biodegradation.

* Conclusion: Evaluate the results to determine the biodegradability of the eco-bricks and

their potential impact on the environment.

2. Durability Testing:
* Physical Testing: Subject the eco-bricks to various physical tests, including

compression, tension, and flexural strength tests, to evaluate their structural integrity.

* Weathering Test: Expose the eco-bricks to simulated weather conditions, such as UV

radiation and moisture, to assess their resistance to environmental factors.

* Abrasion Resistance: Conduct abrasion tests to determine the resistance of the eco-

bricks to wear and tear.

* Long-Term Stability: Monitor the eco-bricks over an extended period to assess their

durability under real-world conditions.

* Analysis: Analyze the test results to determine the durability of the eco-bricks and

identify any areas for improvement.

3. Resistance Testing:

*Chemical Resistance: Expose the eco-bricks to various chemicals commonly found in

the environment to evaluate their resistance to chemical degradation.

* Temperature Resistance: Subject the eco-bricks to temperature variations to assess their

resistance to thermal stress.

* Impact Testing: Conduct impact tests to evaluate the resistance of the eco-bricks to

external forces.

* Moisture Resistance: Test the eco-bricks for resistance to moisture absorption and

evaluate their performance in wet conditions.

* Conclusion: Analyze the resistance test results to determine the overall resilience of the

eco-bricks and their suitability for different applications.

 By following these step-by-step procedures, we comprehensively assessed the

biodegradability, durability, and resistance of handmade eco-bricks made from plastics,

ensuring their effectiveness as sustainable building materials.

Research Design

In this study, a quantitative research approach was implemented, where

researchers utilized instruments to collect statistical data, such as questionnaires or

specialized equipment, with meticulous planning of all research aspects prior to data

acquisition. The independent variable under investigation in this research pertains to

potato starch, while the dependent variables encompass its physical properties, starch

proportion, thermal characteristics, and binding strength. Employing a descriptive

research approach, this study systematically and accurately portrays a situation,

population, or phenomenon. This research design is well-suited for the study's objectives

as it aims to identify characteristics, frequencies, trends, and categories, particularly

beneficial when the topic or issue is not extensively understood. Furthermore, the

research design incorporated an experimental approach, where one variable influences

another as the researcher conducts experiments to explore relationships and outcomes

within the study parameters.

The Statistical Statement

The investigation into the comparative analysis of Eco-Bricks and traditional

cement bricks adopts a comprehensive and multifaceted methodology, commencing with

a thorough data collection process encompassing a diverse array of parameters. This

initial phase involves conducting experiments to quantify degradation rates, executing

rigorous durability tests, and scrutinizing the production costs and environmental

footprints associated with both types of construction materials. Environmental

evaluations are conducted, focusing on key metrics such as carbon footprint

measurements and pollution levels at different stages of the life cycle of the respective

materials. Subsequently, statistical analyses are applied to scrutinize the collected data,

aiming to pinpoint discrepancies in performance and environmental sustainability

between Eco-Bricks and traditional cement bricks.

The statistical analyses employ a range of techniques to compare and contrast the

data, utilizing descriptive statistics to elucidate mean degradation rates and cost-

effectiveness, facilitating a nuanced interpretation of the research findings. The ensuing

discussions revolve around the significant disparities in performance observed and the

implications of these disparities for potential adoption of Eco-Bricks as a sustainable

alternative. Factors such as sustainability, economic feasibility, and environmental impact

are carefully considered, shaping the formulation of recommendations tailored for

various stakeholders. These recommendations encompass policy suggestions geared

towards incentivizing the transition towards sustainable plastic solutions, aligning with

overarching environmental objectives and fostering a more eco-conscious approach to

construction practices. In essence, the research endeavors to provide a holistic

understanding of the comparative analysis between Eco-Bricks and traditional cement

bricks, offering insights into their performance characteristics and environmental

implications while advocating for sustainable plastic usage through targeted

recommendations and policy interventions.

 Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Introduction

Background of the Study…………………………………………………………3

Statement of the Problem………………………………………………………...7

Hypothesis……………………………………………………………………….10

Significance of the Study………………………………………………………...11

Limitations of the Study………………………………………………………….11

Chapter 2: Review of Related Literature and Studies

Local Literature…………………………………………………………………..12

Foreign Literature………………………………………………………………...15

Biodegradability of Eco-Friendly Bricks…………………………………………17

Chapter 3: Methodology

The Subject of the Study…………………………………………………………..20

The Procedure……………………………………………………………………..21

The Research Design……………………………………………………………...24

The Statistical Statement………………………………………………………….25