In India, urban areas generate about 62 million tons of solid waste every year. However, only 43 million tons are collected and the rest end up in landfills. In Delhi alone, more than 14,000 tonnes of waste are produced each day, with a substantial portion remaining untreated, leading to environmental concerns. While municipal bodies strive to manage this vast amount of waste, the responsibility also falls upon citizens to adopt practices that reduce, reuse, and recycle waste.
In the bustling neighbourhood of Malviya Nagar, South Delhi, the residents of Navjivan Vihar have taken waste management into their own hands. For a decade, they have been following a zero-waste, community-driven model. A video of their unique practices was shared on Instagram by the account @zerowasteadda.
Every morning, over 250 households meticulously separate their dry and wet waste. To combat food waste and support those in need, the society has established a communal refrigerator. Here, surplus food is stored, allowing anyone in need to access a meal.
They’ve set up a dedicated collection centre where residents can donate old clothes and household items. These contributions are then distributed to NGOs and individuals who can make good use of them.
They also have a wonderful composting system. Kitchen scraps from all households are collected and transformed into nutrient-rich compost. This compost nourishes the lush gardens within the colony.
Have a look at a video of the waste management system here:
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Navjivan Vihar stands as a shining example of how community-driven initiatives can make a significant impact!