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Take a sip, make a difference

The use of rice husk is a prime example of how sustainable alternatives can be found in unlikely places. This initiates restoration and a circular economy that benefits both the environment and local communities…reports Ronit Jain

Sustainability has become a hot topic in recent years, and for good reasons. As we become more aware of the aftermath of our actions on nature, looking for ways to reduce waste and live more sustainably will do the planet good and initiate rejuvenation. Even starting small, like switching from single use plastic to reusable, sustainable and durable mugs, can subsequently make a bigger difference and promote healthier lifestyle and planet.

But what is Earth’s Waste?

Agriculture is a vital industry that feeds the world’s population, it does however produce a vast amount of by-products. Every year around 500 million tons of crop residue is generated in India. The abundance of this agricultural waste presents a serious ecological problem owing to the release of carbon dioxide, long-lasting smoke and methane produced from its combustion.

Rice husk is the outer layer of rice grains that is removed during the milling process. It is a highly produced crop residue in India. Though when properly sourced, rice husk is ideal for product manufacturing as it is toxin-free, bio-degradable, and carbon-neutral, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional materials such as fragile ceramics and plastics. Not only does this help reduce waste and carbon emissions but also supports local farmers by providing a market for their crop residue.

The use of rice husk is a prime example of how sustainable alternatives can be found in unlikely places. This initiates restoration and a circular economy that benefits both the environment and local communities.

Mugs made out of Rice Husk are an excellent example of a sustainable product that provides consumers with a safer, healthier, and more eco-conscious option. They are durable and can withstand high temperatures, hence they are suitable for use with hot and cold beverages, making them a convenient option for everyday use and busy lifestyles.

We believe the search for safer and more eco-friendly alternatives is crucial and must continue as new technologies and materials emerge. By promoting the use of reusable materials and eco-friendly materials in product manufacturing, we can reduce the carbon footprint and mitigate the negative impact of these materials on the environment.

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Arts & Culture Lite Blogs

Waste to art…. the way of creative life

Vaishali said that initially she told the women about how to make organic and natural fibre products…reports Manoj Pathak

From waste to work of art…Fabrics, accessories made from banana trunk fibre are going global, thanks to hard work of 34-year-old Vaishali Priya.

Vaishali Priya, hailing from Bihar’s Vaishali district, is also teaching women the skills needed for the business, thus making them Aatmanirbhar.

Generally, after harvesting bananas, the trunk is cut, but Priya is not only extracting fibre from the waste trunk to make clothes but also making Yoga and table mats, baskets, among others.

The products made are being exported to the US too.

Vaishali, who has done fashion designing and used to work in an export factory where she learnt about making things of use from the banana fabric.

After that, she left the job, came back to her village and started working on making fabrics from the banana fibre.

Vaishali said she grew up watching people cultivating bananas. Earlier, the banana trunk used to be cut and thrown away, but now it is being used to make fabric, she said.

Vaishali said that initially she told the women about how to make organic and natural fibre products.

She said that she is being helped by the local Krishi Vigyan Kendra in the project.

Initially, Vaishali started her business with 30 women of Hariharpur village.

“When I began this business, I faced difficulties and criticism from many quarters, but today, seeing the dividends earned by me, more people are now associating with me,” Vaishali told.

Here, the women are told about the specifics of soaking, weaving and processing clothes.

Vaishali said that women from the comfort of their homes make ropes from the fibre and earn Rs 300-500 per day.

She said that she gets orders from various places and the people are appreciating her products.

Though right now products are yet to gain huge popularity, those who use them appreciate the effort and use, she claimed.

She said that for making better quality clothes, better techniques are now being used. The Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Hariharpur has provided the women working on the project with machines.

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