Hopefully if you’re reading this post, you have an idea what an EcoBrick is. If not, here’s a quick synopsis of what they are – plastic bottles stuffed (and I mean stuffed) with thin plastics, like wrappers and plastic containers. EcoBricks are a way to keep thin plastics out of waterways and turn them into a useful material. EcoBricks can be used as a structural material, especially for smaller projects like benches and planters, which can be used within a garden environment.
Penn State Schuylkill is a newer EcoBrick site and we are still learning. However, we are excited to bring this technique and ecofriendly project to students. We started our work on a small scale with the BISC 3 class in Fall 2021 (you can see a post about our work here) and now we’re ready to bring it to the whole campus.
Our original EcoBrick challenge is going to be bigger to have more people participate and spread the word about EcoBricks. Our EcoBrick challenge has 2 dimensions – most correct EcoBricks made and densest EcoBrick made. To be considered EcoBricks, the bottles have to meet certain standards with material composition, as well as be packed tightly. For example, your standard 500ml (16.9oz) soda bottle has to have mass of at least 170-180g in order to be considered a good EcoBrick and provide the structural stability desired. Though we are happy to help people learn the process, you can always learn more and watch videos on the Global Ecobrick Alliance website.