PEMANFAATAN ECENG GONDOK SEBAGAI VEGAN LEATHER BERBASIS GREEN ECONOMY

Abstract

The uncontrolled growth of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) in the Wonokerto River has caused serious environmental problems, including sedimentation, which directly affect surrounding communities. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the environmental impacts of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) in the Wonokerto River, examine its potential as a raw material for vegan leather production, and assess the compatibility of this utilization with green economy principles. This research employs a qualitative approach using a library research method. Secondary data were collected from relevant national and international journals. Data collection was conducted through systematic literature searches using academic databases, while data analysis was carried out using content analysis to identify key patterns, concepts, and relationships between environmental issues, material innovation, and sustainable development. The findings indicate that water hyacinth contains a high cellulose fiber content, making it a promising renewable and biodegradable raw material for vegan leather production. Compared to its conventional utilization as compost or organic fertilizer, vegan leather offers higher economic value and broader application potential, particularly in the sustainable fashion and creative industries. The originality of this study lies in its integrative conceptual approach that repositions water hyacinth from an environmental burden into a high value sustainable material within the green economy framework. However, this study is limited to a conceptual and theoretical analysis based on secondary data and does not involve laboratory testing, field observation, or quantitative economic assessment. Therefore, the findings provide a theoretical foundation and initial framework for future empirical studies on biomass-based sustainable material development.