Empowering Communities to Tackle Climate Change: Insights from the First Regional Congress
Bangalore, September 25, 2024 – The inaugural session of the First Regional Congress on Organics and Climate Change took place today at the Bangalore International Centre, drawing a diverse group of over 150 participants. Attendees included nearly 90 delegates from outside Karnataka and abroad, along with 30 local participants, and representation from 60-70 organizations. The event showcased 23 stalls featuring innovative practices in organic waste management, offering a platform for dialogue on solutions to climate change through sustainable waste practices.
Opening Ceremony: A Call to Action
The Congress was inaugurated by Nalini Shekar, Co-founder of Hasiru Dala, who set the tone by emphasizing the necessity of collective action. “Climate change is a global issue, but its solutions lie in local action, and organic waste management is at the heart of it,” she stated. The opening ceremony paid tribute to Poonam Kasturi, the visionary founder of Daily Dump, for her pioneering efforts in organic waste solutions.
Launch of the India Zero Waste (ZW) Alliance
One of the highlights of the event was the launch of the India Zero Waste Alliance, a coalition aiming to promote sustainable waste management practices across the country. The Alliance brings together like-minded organizations to work towards a zero-waste future for India.
Insights from Key Speakers
Mr. Froilan Grate, Executive Director of GAIA Asia Pacific, emphasized the importance of showcasing innovative work in organic waste management. “This Congress is a crucial first step to highlight ground-breaking work,” he said, recalling his inspiration from visiting Bangalore 10 years ago. His words resonated with attendees as a call to action for city officials to be equally inspired by the initiatives presented.
Ms. Jyoti Mhapsekar, President of Stree Mukti Sanghatana and a member of the Zero Waste Alliance India, shared an impassioned message about the impact of technological changes on women in the workforce. “Women are often the first to lose their jobs during technological shifts,” she observed, drawing attention to the social challenges of waste management.
Ms. ShakuBai Sonone, representing the Alliance of Indian Waste Pickers (AIW), shared her personal experience working in hazardous conditions. “We waste pickers are like doctors for waste, handling resources with care and expertise,” she stated, underscoring the critical role waste pickers play in the ecosystem.
Nalini Shekar translated Ms. Sonone’s powerful message, reinforcing the expertise of waste pickers, who often work under difficult conditions but possess vital knowledge in managing organic waste.
Closing Remarks and Future Directions
In his closing remarks, Mr. Grate commended the efforts of Hasiru Dala, the Indian Zero Waste Alliance, and city officials for their commitment to the Congress. “Let’s learn, inspire, and help each other,” he encouraged, inviting continued collaboration over the six-day event. Sessions in the coming days will focus on reducing methane emissions, environmental justice, and the integration of organic waste management into broader climate action efforts.
The Congress promises to serve as a platform for important discussions on sustainable practices, offering innovative strategies to combat climate change.
