Page 49 - Swachhata Chronicles – Transformative Tales from India (eBook)

Bhaini Mehraj village exhibited great Sabha to declare the village as plastic-
enthusiasm to kickstart the campaign free, followed by announcements made
within their community. A Gram Sabha was through the village gurudwaras to motivate
conducted, during which the hazardous community participation in the campaign.
effects of single-use and other plastic
The Sarpanch, Smt. Sarbjeet Kaur,
products on health and the environment
expressed the village’s eagerness to be
were extensively discussed, and the
the first to launch this unique plastic-
community was briefed about the initiative.
jaggery exchange campaign, as it promotes
Villagers were encouraged to store plastic
sustainable practices. The village leader
products separately in their homes and
also aimed to encourage the use of reusable
bring them to a designated collection point bags, bottles, and other eco-friendly
decided by the GP. The collected plastic was alternatives to SUPs. This approach not only
weighed, and an equal amount of jaggery encouraged plastic waste collection but
was given in exchange. Furthermore, a also promoted the consumption of jaggery
resolution was passed during the Gram as a healthier alternative to sugar.

utcome

The campaign is expected to yield several

positive outcomes, including a reduction
in plastic waste, increased community

engagement and empowerment,
sustainable behaviour change, and

environmental preservation.

Swachhata Chronicles: Transformative Tales from India 29