The aim of this work is to evaluate the effectiveness of using R&D waste on the plastic shrinkage of Self-compacting concrete (SCC). It also evaluates the effects of curing conditions on the plastic shrinkage values. SCC is a highly flowable concrete without any segregation used in both dynamic and static states. For the production of sustainable SCC, appropriate supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) are added (Suprakash et al. in J Market Res 15:5662–5681, 2021). The workability test and compressive strength test of SCC mixes were done. ASTM C1579-based mould is used for testing plastic shrinkage. Plastic shrinkage is the volumetric contraction of fresh contract due to the escape of water from the surface of the concrete. A modified SCC mix was developed by completely replacing the coarse aggregates with Recycled and Demolition waste. The test results of normal conventional SCC and modified SCC were compared. It was observed that the modified SCC showed better compressive strength values compared to the normal SCC. Resistance to crack was observed more in modified SCC compared to the normal SCC over the time period. The crack width was also observed to be less in modified SCC compared to the normal SCC. Incorporating R&D waste materials can help reduce the plastic shrinkage by enhancing internal curing, reducing permeability, or improving the mechanical bond within the concrete matrix.