GO-BLOCK Innovation: Transforming plastic waste into paving blocks for inmate empowerment in Wirogunan prison

Endah Tisnawati (University of Technology Yogyakarta, Sleman, Indonesia)
Hilcman Hussen Silawane (University of Technology Yogyakarta, Sleman, Indonesia)
Arya Sagara Dwi Indrawanto (University of Technology Yogyakarta, Sleman, Indonesia)
Berliana Dwi Suryaning Fitri Riyandani (University of Technology Yogyakarta, Sleman, Indonesia)
Mas Nadila Surya Nandini (University of Technology Yogyakarta, Sleman, Indonesia)
Mohammad Nauval Rizwan (University of Technology Yogyakarta, Sleman, Indonesia)

Community Empowerment
Vol. 11 No. 1 (2026)

Plastic waste management in correctional facilities is increasingly complex due to limited space and management systems. The "GO-BLOCK" (Garbage to Block) community service program was implemented at the Class IIA Wirogunan Prison, Yogyakarta, to integrate waste management with the production of value-added goods. This program aims to educate inmates on waste sorting and provide technical skills in producing paving blocks from plastic waste. The methodology included Focus Group Discussions (FGD) with stakeholders, participatory socialization, and evaluation via pre-test and post-test instruments. Results showed significant improvements: understanding of waste sorting benefits rose from 40% to 95%, independent sorting practices increased from 35% to 80%, and technical training interest reached 85%. Beyond reducing waste volume within the prison, the program successfully initiated a circular economy empowerment model that equips inmates with productive skills for their post-release future. The synergy between ecological solutions and social empowerment holds potential for replication in other closed communities as an urban waste mitigation strategy.