Analysis of The Relationship Between Blue Economy, Green Economy, and Digital Economy to Economic Growth and Reducing Unemployment in Surabaya

Abstract

This research examines the relationship between the blue economy, green economy, and digital economy in relation to economic growth and unemployment reduction in the city of Surabaya. Surabaya’s potential as a port city, trade center, and technology hub in East Java presents strong opportunities for development; however, challenges such as unemployment and environmental degradation persist. The study employs an explanatory research approach, utilizing multiple linear regression analysis based on BPS 2020–2024 secondary data and primary data collected through surveys of MSME actors, the maritime sector, and environmental initiatives. The independent variables comprise the blue economy (X₁), the green economy (X₂), and the digital economy (X₃), while the dependent variables are GDP growth per capita (Y₁) and the unemployment rate (Y₂). The results indicate that the digital economy has the most significant positive effect on economic growth (β = 0.482; p < 0.01) and unemployment reduction (β = -0.356; p < 0.05). The blue economy has a positive impact on economic growth (β = 0.371; p < 0.05) and significantly reduces unemployment (β = -0.298; p < 0.05), while the green economy makes a moderate contribution to growth (β = 0.214; p < 0.1) and indirectly influences unemployment reduction. The R² value of 0.684 indicates that the model explains 68.4% of the variation in economic growth and unemployment. These findings suggest that integrating blue–green digital economy strategies can accelerate inclusive and sustainable development in Surabaya, providing a basis for local authorities to design evidence-based policies that combine green investment, maritime resource utilization, and digital transformation.