The Impact of Circular Economy on Health and Education for Transforming Waste into Wealth in Southeast Asia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37641/jimkes.v13i6.4286Keywords:
Circular Economy, Education, Health, Southeast Asia, SustainabilityAbstract
The circular economy represents a transformative framework for sustainability, emphasizing resource efficiency, waste minimization, and regenerative systems. This quantitative study investigates the relationship between circular economy implementation and its effects on public health and educational outcomes in Southeast Asia. Using panel data from five ASEAN countries Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines covering the 2015–2023 period, multiple regression analysis was employed to examine the correlation between CE implementation indicators and key health and education variables. The results reveal a significant negative association between the CE Implementation Index and national health burden (β = -0.47, p < 0.01), alongside a positive association with educational infrastructure (β = 0.53, p < 0.01). Path analysis further indicates that 35% of the circular economy’s influence on education is mediated through improved health conditions. The predictive model suggests that a 10% increase in CE implementation could reduce per capita healthcare expenditure by approximately USD 22.7 and enhance classroom availability by 5.3%. These findings underscore the need for integrated policy frameworks that harmonize environmental, health, and education strategies to advance sustainable development goals across Southeast Asia.
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