Abhay Gupta - JustEco

Eco-Friendly Business Practices for Hazardous and Nonhazardous Waste Management

Abhay Gupta / April 11, 2024 / Sustainable Business

Conventional wisdom says waste is a uniquely human phenomenon. It’s not — other living organisms also produce it, like manure, dead foliage and eggshells. The difference is human activities generate inorganic waste, which is anything that doesn’t come from animals or plants and can take forever to decompose. The waste industries produce is so considerable it’s making the planet too warm for comfort. Agriculture, a significant driver of climate change, is exhibit A. Waste is an unavoidable consequence of modern civilization. The world must manage it well to minimize the impact of human activities on the planet and its inhabitants. The first step toward proper management is knowing the difference between hazardous and non-hazardous waste. What is Hazardous Waste In the United States, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 considers a waste material hazardous when it’s ignitable, corrosive, reactive or toxic. Ignitable wastes can catch fire without warning, burst into flames under certain conditions or have a flash point of less than 140 degrees Fahrenheit — or 60 degrees Celsius. Examples include acetone, kerosene, diesel fuel and other combustible liquids. Corrosive wastes are bases and acids capable of damaging metal containers. Battery acid, alkaline degreasers and wastewater treatment chemicals belong to this group. Reactive wastes are unstable at average temperatures or pressures. When mixed with water, heated or compressed, they can explode, emit harmful gases, fumes, vapours or explosive mixtures, or go through violent reactions. Dynamites, pyrotechnics and blasting agents fall into this category. Toxic wastes are fatal when absorbed or ingested. They contain one or more contaminants checked during the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure. The The list comprises organic compounds, such as benzene, chlordane, cresol, lindane, pyridine and vinyl chloride, and metals, including arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury. Mismanaging hazardous waste materials has adverse ecological effects. Contamination can kill an area’s flora and fauna, compromise animals’ reproductive abilities or limit an entire ecosystem’s survival over the long term. For instance, the Deepwater Horizon oil spill off the Gulf of Mexico in 2010 resulted in about 114,000 bird, sea turtle and marine mammal deaths. Ignitable, corrosive, reactive, and toxic wastes threaten the health and safety of human populations. For example, lead exposure can affect the brain and nervous system, jeopardizing growth and development and causing learning and behavioural issues. In Illinois alone, 3,070 children aged 1-5 tested positive for having high blood lead levels in 2022. What is Nonhazardous Waste Waste is nonhazardous when it’s not ignitable, corrosive, reactive or toxic. Still, it can become hazardous when contaminated. For example, asbestos can render safe roofing shingles a health hazard. Businesses are massive waste generators. What they produce varies by the nature of their operations. Hotels and restaurants are synonymous with large quantities of food scraps and packaging materials, while construction companies are more likely to leave behind discarded wood and metal items. Antifreeze, ash, grinding dust and sludge are common waste materials from industrial activities. Nonhazardous materials are subject to management guidelines to ensure they don’t harm the human population and the environment after disposal. Otherwise, they can injure or kill. Plastic pollution is a solid case in point. Mishandling has caused it to wind up in the sea and reach far-off uninhabited areas. About 14 million tons of plastic end up in the ocean yearly. One of them is ghost gear — lost or abandoned fishing equipment — trapping approximately 650,000 sea creatures every year until they die. Current Business Practices The business sector is one of the guiltiest parties in the world’s waste management problem. Despite environmental regulations, many organizations choose to dispose of their trash illegally. Corporations face heftier fines than individuals if caught, but repeat offenders prove penalties are too cheap. Take Target as an example. The retail giant received accusations of improper toxic waste disposal more than 300 times in landfills from 2001 to 2009. For the same alleged violations committed in California between 2012 and 2016 involving 2,038 hazardous materials, including aerosol cans, compact fluorescent light bulbs, electronics, prescribed pharmaceuticals and syringes, Target agreed to settle with state prosecutors for only $7.4 million. If the cost to properly handle waste — hazardous or not — exceeds the penalty for breaking the law, most enterprises will take the economical route. The linear business model is the root of all waste management problems. This system promotes extracting and manufacturing products with virgin resources without considering recyclability. This results in businesses buying newly mined or harvested raw materials to mass-produce goods that ultimately wind up in the environment as waste. The linear economy is the standard because systems are in place to source new resources at affordable costs. Organizations participating in it get to keep their expenses low and maximize profits. Governments encourage this business model for the sake of economic growth. A vibrant economy attracts investors, creates jobs and puts more money into people’s pockets that can reenter the economy. Sustainability has only recently been high on the agenda of many governments and corporations. The environmental problems the linear model brings have become too inconvenient to ignore. Because of this, circularity is gaining traction. The alternative circular economy is about reusing anything possible to minimize waste and greenhouse gas emissions. Eco-Friendly Business Practices for Hazardous and Nonhazardous Waste Management Managing hazardous and nonhazardous materials starts with waste minimization. The circular business model emphasizes the importance of consuming no more than necessary and reusing resources whenever possible. Corporations must forecast demand better to avoid ordering surplus supplies and lay off single-use items. If reducing consumption and reusing goods aren’t possible, concentrate on recycling. Sourcing recyclable materials and finished products means they can get new leases on life and not congest scarce landfill space. A robust recycling sector helps diversify supply chains and make high-value products whose raw materials can be costly when newly extracted — like lead-acid car batteries, consumer electronics and residential roofs. Composting is one of the most eco-friendly management methods for organic waste. Turning vegetable and fruit scraps, coffee grounds, paper tea bags, crushed eggshells and wool products into valuable fertilizers is an environmentally responsible way

Eco-Friendly Business Practices for Hazardous and Nonhazardous Waste Management Read More »

Why Eco-Friendly Hardwood Flooring is the Smart Choice for Environmentally Conscious Home

Abhay Gupta / April 6, 2024 / Sustainable Living

We as humans spend most of the time in the area covered from all four directions that could be your home, office, hotels, school, or any other place. In an era where people are environmentally conscious and try to play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable life. One such choice is to select the flooring material for their living space that can contribute to making a world greener. In this blog, we will explore the world of eco-friendly hardwood flooring, what it is, its benefits, maintenance tips, and various types of eco-friendly hardwood flooring options available in the market which make it easy for you to select. What is Eco-Friendly Hardwood Flooring Eco-friendly hardwood flooring is a type of floor material that is produced by a sustainable method or the way which is not harmful for the environment. This type of hardwood flooring is manufactured with fewer toxic chemicals, reducing the impact on indoor air quality. Benefits of Eco-Friendly Hardwood Flooring 1. Sustainability: One of the primary benefits of eco-friendly hardwood flooring is its sustainability. This flooring option is typically made from renewable and responsibly sourced materials, such as bamboo or reclaimed wood. By choosing eco-friendly hardwood, you can help reduce deforestation and promote the use of sustainable resources. 2. Reduced environmental impact: Eco-friendly hardwood flooring has a lower environmental impact compared to traditional hardwood flooring. The manufacturing process often involves less energy consumption and fewer harmful chemicals. This choice helps minimize pollution and contributes to a greener planet. 3. Improved indoor air quality: Traditional flooring materials, such as carpets, can harbor dust, pollen, and allergens, leading to poor indoor air quality. Eco-friendly hardwood flooring does not trap these particles, creating a cleaner and healthier environment for you and your family. 4. Health benefits for homeowners: Along with improved air quality, eco-friendly hardwood flooring can also benefit the health of homeowners. This type of flooring does not emit harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can contribute to respiratory issues. It creates a safer and healthier living space for everyone. 5. Durability and longevity: Eco-friendly hardwood flooring is known for its durability and longevity. It can withstand heavy foot traffic and is resistant to scratches and dents, making it suitable for both residential and commercial spaces. Investing in this type of flooring ensures long-term satisfaction and reduces the need for frequent replacements. 6. Versatility in design and aesthetics: Eco-friendly hardwood flooring offers a wide range of design options and aesthetics. Whether you prefer a modern or rustic look, there is a variety of colors, grains, and finishes to choose from. This versatility allows you to create the desired ambiance and style in your eco-friendly home. 7. It will Increase property value: Installing eco-friendly hardwood flooring can increase the value of your property. Potential homebuyers often appreciate the sustainability factor and the high-quality appearance of this flooring option. It can be a valuable selling feature when the time comes to put your house on the market. 8. Easy maintenance: Maintaining sustainable wood flooring is relatively easy. Additionally, this type of flooring is resistant to stains and spills, making it more convenient for busy households. 9. Cost-effectiveness: Wood flooring may have a higher upfront cost compared to other flooring options, it proves to be cost-effective in the long run. Its durability and longevity mean fewer repair and replacement expenses over time. Additionally, its positive impact on property value can result in a higher return on investment. 10. Contribution to a circular economy: By choosing eco-friendly hardwood flooring, you contribute to a circular economy. This means that you support the recycling and reuse of materials, reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices. Your choice makes a positive impact on the environment and encourages others to make similar choices. Types of Eco-Friendly Hardwood Flooring When it comes to eco-friendly hardwood flooring, there are several types to consider. Let’s explore four popular options: FSC-certified hardwood, salvaged hardwood, bamboo flooring, and cork flooring. A. FSC-Certified Hardwood: Forest Stewardship Council is an organization that is responsible for forest management. FSC-certified hardwood comes from sustainably managed forests, where trees are harvested by focusing on promoting biodiversity, protect water quality. This wood floor denotes that this wood comes from forests that are responsibly managed and not contributing to deforestation. B. Salvaged Hardwood: If the wood that has been reclaimed from old buildings, and structures rather than cut more trees are included in Salvaged hardwood. This type of method not only reduces the need for harvesting new trees but also minimizes waste. C. Bamboo Flooring: Bamboo is the most popular eco-friendly material that is used to make various items such as toothbrushes, baskets, straws, cutlery, and bottles and more but the list will not end. Bamboo flooring is one of them that people use to make their home more sustainable and initiate to protect the environment. Except this bamboo is a fast-growing grass that would be easily available at low expenses. Bamboo flooring is durable, easy to maintain, and offers a range of colors and styles. However, it’s important to choose bamboo flooring that is made from sustainable bamboo sources and manufactured using eco-friendly processes. D. Cork Flooring: Cork flooring is made from the bark of cork oak trees that is harvested without cutting down the trees. Its regenerating properties for 8-10 years, resilience, cushioning effect, and sound-absorbing properties make it a highly sustainable option. Maintenance tips for Eco-Friendly Hardwood Flooring: Brands and Suppliers of Eco-Friendly Hardwood Flooring Bruce: Bruce is a well-known brand for hardwood flooring in affordable price options that are made in the USA. Their selection might be a bit limited, they are readily available in most major home renovation stores and online. They prioritize traditional styles and finishes, with a variety of oak options. Doma: A flooring company that mainly focuses on providing affordable hardwood options. In their collections they offer stylish & modern looks, including gray and bleached. This brand Doma gives you the opportunity to first order samples online that can help to ensure

Why Eco-Friendly Hardwood Flooring is the Smart Choice for Environmentally Conscious Home Read More »

How Young Professionals Can Bring Sustainability to Corporate Jobs?

Abhay Gupta / March 27, 2024 / Sustainable Living

young professional meeting their new bosses

The term young professionals is being used a lot nowadays in the corporate world. But does anyone know what it signifies? Or how can these young professionals help office jobs become more sustainable? Well, young professionals are people in the age group of 20-49. These individuals place a lot of emphasis on maintaining sustainability in their workplace for a stress-free and better environment. As climate changes are taking place with other environmental changes they are now highlighting the importance of a better workplace system. In 2024 several companies are themselves practicing many sustainability tips. Even the new workers are keeping an eye on the jobs that embrace these practices when choosing where to work. As the younger professionals understand and embrace sustainability it is helping the environment a lot. It helps in transforming and paving a path to a more sustainable future ahead. What Defines Workplace Sustainability? When young professionals or anybody else wants to create a sustainable environment they need to implement certain things. Such as reducing waste, eco-friendly practices, and solutions that require less energy. It aims to achieve business objectives without adverse environmental effects. ESG criteria assess a company’s impact, considering factors. The factors are like: These factors foster a sense of well-being among employees and identify areas for improvement to ensure a greener future. But now the main question is how can young professionals make a corporate job sustainable. Different Ways In Which Young Professionals Create A Sustainable Corporate Job Environment In 2024 Propose The Idea Of Remote Work. Providing employees with flexible work-from-home options offers numerous advantages. Many organizations have reduced or completely removed their office spaces as a consequence of using this operational approach. It further leads to cost savings in terms of rent, power, machinery, snacks, and other related expenditures. The concepts of sustainability may be embraced via the practices of reducing, reusing, and recycling. Every young professional in a company needs to initiate the methods of reducing, recycling, and reusing to achieve sustainability. Embracing the 3R approach means finding ways to reuse materials and products while being mindful of resource consumption in daily activities. Young Professionals Can Work Towards Establishing A Paperless Office. Eliminating paper consumption entirely in your business is a difficult task, but you may begin by reducing paper waste. Promote the practice of staff members conserving paper and ink by printing only when necessary. It is important to maintain a regular supply of environmentally friendly paper for printers in order to foster a more sustainable working milieu. It is essential to actively contribute towards accomplishing all of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. There are a set of 17 total sustainable development goals. These goals are mainly under the objectives of the 2023 agenda. They cover a variety of world challenges like climate change, environmental degradation, poverty, gender inequality, and so on. Following these practices makes sure that there is alignment between the company’s goals and culture. Engage in the process of incorporating SDGs into your organizational environment. Some goals are: Calculate Your Carbon Footprint. Dealing with your company’s carbon footprint can be eye-opening, but understanding your current situation is the initial move toward making meaningful progress. This tool for monitoring the environment in a new tab allows you to calculate your company’s carbon footprint and take steps to reduce your organization’s environmental footprint. Make The Shift Towards Green And Clean Energy Sources. Transitioning the energy source for the workplace is often a simple procedure, just requiring a short phone call to the energy supplier. Opting for renewable energy as opposed to the combustion of fossil fuels is a more prudent decision for sustained use due to its lack of emission of detrimental greenhouse gas emissions. Introducing Zero Waste And Energy-Efficient Bathroom Solutions. In the context of adopting a more ecologically conscious way of life, bathrooms and kitchens provide the most promising opportunities for effecting good change, since these spaces tend to use the highest quantities of energy and materials. A little contribution yields significant benefits, thereby justifying the substitution of paper towels with heated hand dryers and the installation of low-flow faucets. Consider Installing Water-Saving Fixtures. One strategy to establish a more sustainable workplace involves minimizing water wastage within your organization. Easily reduce your company’s ecological footprint and your water consumption bill by setting up specific machinery to help preserve this vital resource for survival. Promote the use of environmentally sustainable transportation methods. Encouraging personnel to use public transportation wherever possible may successfully promote eco-consciousness. Furthermore, the absence of concerns around driving or navigating through traffic throughout their commute to work may potentially enhance their ability to reach their workstation with heightened mental acuity and vitality. Offer Training On Sustainability To Your Employees. The only way a company can be successful is if the entire team of employees follows certain goals. Young professionals can help give ideas or even start a training workshop to spread awareness for the same. They can cover topics like environmental issues, why is it important to save it, etc. This can motivate them to actively engage in such sustainable practices in turn getting better results. Conclusion Using innovation and technology is essential for tackling sustainability challenges. The technology used by young professionals enhances energy efficiency with control and monitoring systems. It is done also while advancements in solar and wind energy allow companies to generate more renewable energy. Accepting sustainable economic practices by young professionals, such as developed recycling and products that can be reused. It highlights the significant role of technology in promoting sustainability. Digital solutions elevate individuals’ quality of life through advancements in energy efficiency, employee welfare, sustainable growth, and inclusivity. Building sustainability in your job requires ongoing effort, but the return on investment is invaluable. Striving for ongoing enhancements in sustainable living positively impacts the company, society, and the world. Frequently Asked Questions

How Young Professionals Can Bring Sustainability to Corporate Jobs? Read More »

Why Sustainability Is Trending In Education?

Abhay Gupta / March 17, 2024 / Sustainable Living

Educating people on how to live sustainably is an important tool in today’s changing environmental situation. In addition to covering all academic topics, it goes beyond the classroom to teach practical skills that may help the environment and encourage future independence. An important part of youth activities should be hands-on learning about the world. By teaching kids about the environment, we can raise kids who care about the world around them, can support themselves financially, and are passionate about saving it. 5 Reasons Why Sustainability is Important in Education? Preparation And Adaptation For The Future. Education has a pivotal function in equipping learners for forthcoming transformations and mitigating further harm. Through current education, educators, scholars, and guardians may provide students with the essential skills to navigate an unfamiliar future environment. The provision of environmental education to students imparts them with essential information about self-sufficiency, science, and conservation. It also prepares them for future careers as scientists, researchers, and activists. This further plays a major role in having a sustainable environment and saving resources. The Relationship Between People and Their Natural Environment. For humans to survive, the climate is very important because it provides food, shelter, and air. The water cycle and natural processes depend on trees for food, shelter, and air. Nevertheless, forests have seen a 32% decrease during the industrial period, resulting in an annual cutdown of 15 billion trees. 13% of all fossil fuel pollution in the world comes from cutting down trees. An important part of controlling weather patterns and a big part of making air for the world, the ocean is becoming more and more polluted by trash, oil, and poisons, which is killing off marine life. To keep more damage from happening to our ecosystem, it is very important to teach kids how people and nature are connected. While providing theoretical instruction in environmental science is a first step, offering youngsters the chance to directly engage with the idea is more impactful. The Importance of Planetary Respect Preserving the world is vital for the survival of future generations. It entails acquiring knowledge about its historical background, operational roles, and requirements. Sustainable education within educational institutions imparts knowledge to youngsters on the significance of the environment and its role in shaping its future. The promotion of sustainable behaviors and conservation efforts is facilitated by an increase in respect, which in turn leads to a reduction in littering, pollution, and resource waste. Additionally, it promotes a mentality deeply ingrained in changing the environment, which should be nurtured from an early stage. The Balance Between Society and the Environment Adolescents should have the ability to recognize environmentally conscious organizations and establish sustainable commercial enterprises in order to create a more ecologically conscious future for society. The economy and ecosystems are influenced by sustainability, and contemporary society has a substantial influence on the environment. For building a more eco-friendly future, it is important to take business classes that focus on sustainability, like Leadership, Entrepreneurship, The surroundings, and the Future. Skills for a Sustainable Life College environmental activities and initiatives foster the cultivation of environmentally conscious habits and abilities among students, preparing them for their future endeavors. These programs instruct kids in cultivating their own crops, preserving resources, and selecting environmentally-friendly items. Higher education institutions that provide sustainability degrees and specializations in associated domains, such as agriculture, energy, and industry, are emphasizing the incorporation of environmentally conscious methodologies. Early sustainable learning not only imparts essential life skills related to sustainability but also equips students with the necessary knowledge and abilities to excel in their pursuit of environmental studies. Students have the opportunity to establish environmentally conscious enterprises, join eco-friendly corporations, or exert influence on established firms to modify their approaches. Project-based employment can facilitate the development of leadership abilities, foster collaboration, enhance communication skills, and cultivate a more forward-thinking mindset. Conclusion Ecological stewardship, fair treatment of all persons, and the advancement of economic development are all components of a sustainable way of life. It has environmental, social, and economic aspects. Incorporating sustainability principles into early childhood education enables children to recognize their responsibility to improve the global environment for all. Furthermore, it equips them with the knowledge and agency to make informed choices regarding their health and the global community, while also instructing them on how to be responsible citizens. 88% of experts imply that teaching children about environmental issues is essential. However, as per the NPR study, only some professionals in reality discuss sustainability with their learners. Frequently Asked Questions

Why Sustainability Is Trending In Education? Read More »

Practical Tips for Sustainable E-Waste Management in Business

Abhay Gupta / March 4, 2024 / Sustainable Business

E-waste consists of hazardous and dangerous materials. If you do not dispose of it properly, it can pose a number of threats to health and the environment. Also, by recycling electronic waste, companies and facilities can extract and reuse several useful components while minimizing the dangerous effects of e-waste. So, with proper communication and collaboration, businesses and industries can help the ecosystem and save natural resources. 3 Elements of Sustainable E-Waste Management Rapid technological advancements have helped everyone in a number of ways, but it has also increased the amount of e-waste. So, proper e-waste management is necessary to decrease the negative impacts on health and the ecosystem. Below we will go over three important elements of sustainable e-waste management and how businesses can cut costs, reduce harmful e-waste impacts, and increase their reputation. 1. Reduce The best way to reduce e-waste is to reduce its creation. As a business owner, you can educate customers on e-waste and encourage them to “buy less and use longer”. Also, you should promote more durable and repairable device manufacturing to reduce e-waste. Finally, manufacturers also have to focus more on eco-friendly design to increase lifespan. 2. Reuse Promoting to reuse of electronic devices is also a reasonably sustainable approach. Manufacturers and businesses need to build programs for refurbishing electronic devices. Also, donating or giving off devices to organizations and people in need can help reduce e-waste while facilitating lower or underserved communities. 3. Recycle Recycling is one of the best ways of sustainable e-waste management. Recycling e-waste can help recover valuable materials and reuse them for several purposes. Also, it will reduce its harmful impacts. There are many certified e-waste pick-up and disposal facilities that help businesses in this regard. Practical Tips for Sustainable E-Waste Management Once you are through understanding the key elements, here are some of the practical tips to manage e-waste. ➔ Understand the Effects of E-Waste E-waste contains a lot of harmful and hazardous materials that can seriously harm the ecosystem and health. It includes lead, mercury, cadmium, and whatnot. So, it is important to understand this aspect of not properly disposing of e-waste. These things can contaminate soil, water, and the environmental air. So, it is vital to properly handle, recycle, and dispose of e-waste to prevent that from happening. ➔ Collaboration and Extended Producer Responsibility Government, production industries, shop owners, and customers must collaborate on creating policies and plans to overcome the e-waste problem. For this, EPR or Extended Producer Responsibility can prove to be really helpful. It holds producers accountable for the lifecycle of their products, from initial production to final disposal. With EPR in place, manufacturers will take control of properly recycling and disposing of e-waste to promote a healthy environment and cut costs for their business. ➔ Raise Awareness About E-Waste In addition to taking necessary e-waste management measures, it is vital to create awareness about it. Businesses must educate individuals and collaborate with other companies to do so. You can inform your customers about the hazardous impact of the e-waste and the importance of proper waste handling, recycling, and disposal. Also, you can collaborate with educational institutions, community groups, and local authorities to organize workshops to escalate the issue and encourage others to take necessary measures. ➔ Upgrade Technology and Track E-Waste Technology has grown immensely and these advancements can help improve e-waste management. For example, blockchain technology can help track and trace electronic products’ lifecycles and ensure proper handling and recycling of e-waste. Moreover, in this digital age, several technologies like automatic sorting and eco-friendly extraction and collection can improve the recovery rate, reduce waste, and boost chances of environmental protection. ➔ Promote Global Cooperation Against E-Waste The e-waste is not just the issue of a single country or state. It extends far beyond borders; in fact, the whole world. So, it is necessary for all governments and leaders around the world to collaborate and make efforts to reduce e-waste and promote its proper disposal. It is necessary to address this issue as fast as possible before it further harms our ecosystem and health. Businesses should encourage the government to take the necessary steps to implement and impose strict electronic waste policies. It will help promote international cooperation and encourage everyone to stand up against e-waste. Final Takeaway Sustainable e-waste management policies and laws are necessary to save the ecosystem and promote a healthier future. As a business owner, it is your duty to encourage your employees and customers to take important measures. These include educating your fellow people, collaborating with the community, and working with e-waste pickup and disposal units to reduce e-waste. With proper education, technology utilization, and global partnership, proper e-waste management can become a duty of everyone. It not only saves our planet but also helps cut costs, save natural resources, and promote a healthier environment for all future generations to come.

Practical Tips for Sustainable E-Waste Management in Business Read More »

Use Waste Plastic to Create Roads: A Genius Idea of “Plastic Man of India”

Abhay Gupta / February 9, 2024 / Environment

Plastic has become a significant challenge for people who follow a sustainable lifestyle. Considering the adverse effects of plastic, many people have been replacing it or recycling it to decrease its impact on the environment. However, there are still many plastics-related items that cannot be recycled. For example, when you buy a packet of chips, the wrapper is hard to recycle because of its oil marks. So, what can we do with such plastic items? A genius idea by the “Plastic Man of India” gave a solution to this question. Who is the Plastic Man of India? Rajagopalan Vasudevan, an Indian scientist in the field of Chemistry, has been called the “Plastic Man of India” for his innovative way of using plastic to create sustainable and durable roads. For his unique invention, in 2018, he was awarded with the fourth highest civilian honor of India – Padma Shri. Born in Tamil Nadu, he works as a professor at Thiagarajar College of Engineering, Madurai. Why Did He Get the Name-Plastic Man of India? Even though plastic can be recycled, some types of plastic cannot be recycled. Moreover, recycling can take place only a few times, and this process can consume lots of energy and resources, too. On the other hand, we all know the adverse effects plastic can cause. It can cause many harmful effects on the environment, including becoming a non-decomposable waste, releasing toxins when dumped on the earth, creating ocean pollution, and thus affecting the lives of marine animals. This raised lots of discussions and serious talks about banning plastic in the country. In 2000, Professor Vasudevan wanted to experiment from his side to find a solution for the waste plastic. He, along with his team at the Center for Studies on Solid Waste Management (CSSWM), started doing various studies and experiments on waste plastic. In 2002, they mixed plastic with heated bitumen and experimented. It succeeded, and they created a road in their college with a mixture of heated bitumen and plastic scrap. This road had become robust and successful. In 2006, the college received a patent for this technique. This journey to utilize scrap plastic in a new way and this unique invention gave him the name “Plastic Man of India.” What is the Process for Making Plastic Roads? Building roads using plastic is a complex process. However, it’s a really fascinating process. The initial step in the process of creating plastic roadways is shredding. In this stage, the received plastic components are broken up into tiny pieces. Here, every last bit of dust is eliminated. The second step involves mixing all of the crushed pieces with hot gravel. To ensure that all of the plastic melts, this mixture is heated to 160°C. After that, it is poured onto the heated asphalt roads. Once it cools down, the roads are ready for usage. The technique is easy because it requires no additional equipment or industrial participation. Not only that, but less bitumen means less use of its resources. Moreover, waste plastic can be used safely in this way. This process benefits the environment and a sustainable lifestyle and doesn’t release toxic gases like dioxin. Which Type of Plastic Can be Used to Create Plastic Roads? I’m sure you’re wondering what kind of plastic is used in the plastic roads. Road construction can make extensive use of a variety of waste materials. Among them are plastic containers for chips, cookies, chocolates, mugs, cups, and carry bags. A circular on the use of plastic waste for building rural roads was also released by the Ministry of Rural Development. Materials that can be used to construct these roads include laminated plastic, carry bags, cups with a maximum thickness of 60 microns, hard and soft foams of any thickness, and packing materials coated with aluminum up to 60 microns thick. Nevertheless, flux sheets and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) are prohibited. Are These Plastic Roads Safe? Plastic roads are safe and budget-friendly ones. When the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) assessed the performance of plastic roads, it discovered that even after four years, the streets exhibited no common defects. There were no Potholes, edge faults, rodding, rut depth, or raveling. Plastic-made highways improve the sustainability of the environment and are considered the best sustainable innovation. They have been shown to be more cost-effective and durable. Bitumen and plastic stick to each other well since they are both petroleum-based materials. For this reason, they boost the roadways’ weight-bearing capability and longevity. Additionally, the plastic roadways show improved resistance to damage from rain. Another Creation of R.Vasudevan- Plastone Another invention resulted from Prof. R Vasudevan’s propensity for continuous experimentation. He made the decision to attempt making a stone block coated in plastic, and “plastone” was born in 2012. Waste plastic and stone are combined to create a plastone block. It is proven to be more resistant to water percolation and to tolerate higher pressures. Plastone blocks have been created at the professor’s chemistry department using leftover granite, ceramic, and plastic trash. About six PET bottles and 300 plastic carry bags are used for every plastone block. Plastone’s non-porous nature and capacity to stop penetration of water are two of its main benefits. Plastone is suitable for flooring, particularly outdoors. It can be an affordable and reliable alternative in place of cement blocks, which tend to deteriorate under continuous rain. It can be a useful liner for canals and other bodies of water to stop water seepage. Moreover, compound walls can be raised with it. It can be made colorful and appealing by applying an emulsion coat. Conclusion The unique and most useful innovations of Plastic Man of India raised a new evolution. Many national highways were constructed using this technique. His innovation gave a solution to many waste disposal problems. People are already using alternatives to plastic, and his innovation is adding to this motivation to decrease the harmful effects of plastic as much as we can. Image Source – thehindubusinessline and India Times

Use Waste Plastic to Create Roads: A Genius Idea of “Plastic Man of India” Read More »

Online Thrift Shop In India – One-Stop Destination for Unique Products

Abhay Gupta / February 7, 2024 / Sustainable Living, Sustainable Business

Things that aren’t useful for one may be helpful for others. Thrift stores operate on this very principle. Simply put, thrift stores are second-hand stores where you can get unique and vintage clothing and other products. In this internet era, second-hand products have gained popularity, and online thrift shops in India are rising in number because of this demand. You can get your desired items at lower prices through these stores. Additionally, buying through thrift stores aids in donations and supports sustainable living. Agree or not, many people nowadays want to do something for the environment to make it better. That’s why from straws to everything we use in our daily life, people prefer sustainable materials. With the same intention, people prefer thrift shopping to decrease textile wastage and help the environment. India is no exception. You can find second-hand clothes online through many websites. Let’s explore a few of them. 1. Bodements If you’re looking for fashionable equipment, including second-hand clothes at reasonable prices in India, Bodements is the place to go. You can also give them your used clothes for selling to another customer. The store is known for providing regular and daily-wear clothes, accessories, and other fashion equipment, all with unique and eye-catching designs. 2. Carol’s Shop Carol’s shop is the best online thrift shop India has. Carol’s shop has unique designs and printed clothing. There is a vast collection of refreshing and unique printed clothing for all the fashion-enthusiastic people around the whole of India. They even have an Instagram page where they regularly update their latest collections. You can consider this second-hand store to purchase all your favorite fashion items at the lowest prices. 3. Aima Vintage Aima Vintage is more famous for its second hand clothes. The main purpose of this online store is to provide all the collections of 60s and 70s styles of clothing to the people. The shop is appropriate for those people who are crazy about wearing printed pants and apparel. 4. RedEmpress Are you the one who wants to maintain your fashion status but simultaneously wants to decrease your carbon footprint? Then, RedEmpress is for you! You can follow their Instagram profile and explore their products. They offer all the printed shirts both for men and women with gold chain links. If you love printed shirts but want to save money on them, then you can buy these second hand clothes online. 5. Viange Do you want to appear like a celebrity and maintain the same fashion statement? Then the next best thrift store online in India is Viange. They are also famous for selling designer clothing and jewelry to audiences at reasonable prices. Their jewelry looks incredible, and you can even use them for your eco-friendly wedding. Audiences can also sell their own used second-hand clothing at the store anytime. 6. Folkpants For people looking for oversized white pants, the next online thrift store is Folkpants for you. This is the best unique thrift store online in India. With minimalistic fashion and bold designs, their products have gingham prints and spot florals. They are also famous for giving dramatic collars and sleeves, and they recycle old clothes to create these incredible designs. 7. Mirinwon Mirinwon is perfect for casual-wear lovers, offering a range of casual dresses and chic formal clothes. From printed shirts to bags, everything is available in this store. They sell branded and vintage clothes for men and women in extensive collections. 8. Vintage Inc If you are looking for a huge collection of winter jackets, sweaters, and other things, this particular store, vintage INC, is the best option. All the clothes are mostly at affordable prices for people who are looking for second-hand best, quality clothes. 9. Dolce Vee This is another online thrift shop in India that can help you to get all your favorite clothing items, footwear, accessories, jewelry, and other things. If you want something branded at low prices, this store is your best destination. 10. Slow Cat Store This store offers outstanding and attractive printed T-shirts. It sells the kind of wacky, eccentric items you’d find at a thrift store, such as plaid button-downs with oversized flowers or satin blouses with asymmetrical panels. Men who are more into funk than others are welcome here. 11. Bombay Closet Cleanse Bombay Closet Cleanse is a green business idea with a physical store in Bandra. You can find lovely bodysuits, skirts, crop tops, and more at this women-run charity store. They also donate a lot to needy NGOs. With their products, you can add sustainability to your wardrobe. 12. Curated Findings This online thrift store was founded after the pandemic. This store quickly became well-known for the quality of its handcrafted goods. The company is proud to offer ‘unique’ and ‘sustainable’ products, emphasizing the quality of the textiles and fabric. 13. Snazzy Thrift Snazzy Thrift is one of the best-known thrift shops in the country for promoting eco-friendly clothing. You can find vintage and pre-loved items in their collection. At Snazzy Thrift, you can find everything you need to look fabulous without spending too much. 14. Lulu Thrifts Lulu Thrifts is a home-based business that operates as a boutique shop on Instagram. They sell a wide variety of items, including handcrafted resin goods, clothing, bags, and shoes, with orders processed and mailed out weekly on Mondays. 15. Amalfi Originally founded with the idea of making “thrifting a regular trend,” Amalfi has grown into one of the greatest sustainable e-commerce platforms in the country. They carry both mainstream and high-end labels and donate most of their annual profits to charity. Conclusion Sustainable living is necessary for us to save the earth from climate change. Thrift shopping is one sustainable way of living. It’s just like any regular shopping, but you get the same attractive clothes and other items, often at lower prices. Plus, it’s budget-friendly. So, what are you waiting for? Start thrift shopping and make a positive impact on the environment!

Online Thrift Shop In India – One-Stop Destination for Unique Products Read More »

Eco-friendly Diwali: 10 Ways How to Celebrate an Eco-friendly Diwali

Abhay Gupta / January 28, 2024 / Eco-Friendly, Sustainable Living

Diwali is the biggest Hindu festival of India, known as a festival of lights. It is a five days long festival which is celebrated all over India. The festival is celebrated mainly because it signifies the victory of truth over evil. Although there is an ancient story behind it to celebrate the Deepawali festival. i.e., When the king of Ayodhya, god ram, comes to their home after 14 years of exile with their wife goddess Sita & brother Laxman. The citizens of Ayodhya solemnize that auspicious time. But apart from that, many things occur in this festival, which has a destructive impact on the planet earth. People do multiple things during Diwali: they clean their home, make rangolis, burn diyas, make delicious sweets, purchase new clothes, etc. Millions of people celebrate the Diwali festival every good year; however, they refuse to look at the environment’s health & buy plastic products, burst firecrackers, and waste tons of food. These all are the reasons to build a dump yard & produce pollution. The primary purpose of writing this blog is to tell people that there is still a way to help the environment by celebrating Diwali in an eco-friendly way. What is eco-friendly Diwali? Eco-friendly Diwali meaning is to celebrate a Diwali festival without damaging or harming the environment’s health. It includes those practices which could be replaced from those things that negatively impact the environment. Few activities could be considered in green Diwali Also Read: Ganpati Decoration Ideas: Best Ganpati Decoration Ideas For Home If people use these practices to celebrate Diwali, it definitely could be called eco-friendly Diwali or green Diwali. 10 ways to celebrate an eco-friendly Diwali Here we wrote a detailed guide about what people can do to celebrate an eco-friendly Diwali. Use soil-made Deepak & burn diyas Instead of lights. Use soil-made diyas & earthen lamps for lightning. Diyas & earthen lamps use oil for illumination, which provides multiple benefits: Try new sustainable fashion brands. As we all know, shopping is the central part of Diwali & during Diwali people start purchasing clothes before one month. However, what if I say to you that in the market, various sustainable clothing brands present who offers a tremendous clothing collection for everyone, which helps to take your festival or life towards sustainability. If you are thinking about sustainable clothes, let me tell you that sustainable clothes look similar to regular clothes. Still, the difference is not that they are made up of using organic fibers, which provides you with more sustainability. Prefer Natural colours for making rangoli Rangoli is another great activity that has been done by people from ancient days. Generally, colours (gulal) are used to make the rangoli at the entrance of the house. However, these days, maximum gulal contains hazardous chemicals, that’s why people should avoid the use of chemical colours & make the color at home (believe us it is effortless) or use branded natural colours, flowers, leaves, etc. Use Biodegradable (plastic-free) items. Shopping is the essential part of the Deepawali festival & people are so excited about this but what they don’t know is they will use tons of plastic items for their home meanwhile weights of plastic bags are wasted & thrown anywhere. So this Diwali, let’s say no to plastic bags & begin with any other sustainable items. Also Read: 10 Harmful Effects Of Plastic On The Environment | Causes + Effortless Solutions Gift environment-friendly products Instead of giving rupees to youngers, relatives, friends, Gifting is a significant part of the Indian tradition on Diwali, but what if we will gift them environment-friendly products that look unique and work for them & not harm the environment. Presently, numerous kinds of eco-friendly products are available in the market like eco-friendly baby products, Organic beauty products, Travel products, Bathroom products, Eco-friendly kitchen products, sustainable clothes & more. These gifts express your care about the environment & will encourage more people to give others environment-friendly items. Unique Diwali gifts During the festival week of Deepawali, people buy sweets in large quantities, but what they can do to give an eco-friendly touch to their Diwali is make sweets at home with organic food ingredients, which will minimize the risk of getting ill. I am saying this because various sweets come in plastic boxes. After all, it reduces the food quality & also would not be freshly sweets packed every time. Buy eco-friendly idols That is one more element that people forget is they brought chemical god idols. Make sure to purchase statues that are used soil as a raw material in manufacturing. Also Read: How To Make Eco-Friendly Ganesha At Home | DIY Donate old stuff Diwali is the symbol of sharing happiness with others & erasing all evilness from your heart. Deepawali not only celebrates with your family, friends & loved ones but also with needy people. We have an idea of how you can do it. You can buy new clothes or donate old stuff with others or use your home waste & create valuable items and then donate with poor people. In addition, you can also gift sweet boxes to poor people. Protect street dogs from crackers During Diwali week, people harm stray animals. People can initiate & come ahead for spreading the awareness or request neighbours, relatives, friends, or could use social media not to misbehave with animals. Say goodbye to crackers or use green crackers Firecrackers are the only thing that is responsible for producing the maximum percentage of pollution in Diwali week. If people would control or stop burning firecrackers, then the pollution level would be reduced in India. To improve the environment or reduce pollution, the Indian government launched eco-friendly crackers or Green crackers. I guess that is the only thing that people know very well because, since 2018, green crackers have become very popular in India. What are green crackers? Eco-friendly crackers were created by the Indian Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR). Green crackers sound similar to ordinary crackers, these types of firecrackers are made of recycled

Eco-friendly Diwali: 10 Ways How to Celebrate an Eco-friendly Diwali Read More »

Author name: Abhay Gupta