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In a world increasingly burdened by plastic waste, one Pune man, Nandan Bhatt, is making waves with his innovative venture, EcoKaari. Founded in 2020, this social enterprise specializes in upcycling plastic waste into handcrafted fabrics, garments, handbags, home decor, and office stationery. Bhatt’s journey began years earlier, rooted in his experiences trekking through the stunning landscapes of Kashmir, where he witnessed firsthand the pollution wrought by careless tourists.

The turning point came in the early 2000s when Bhatt observed that plastic bags, unlike bottles, were often discarded without a second thought, littering natural spaces. Recognizing the urgent need to address this issue, he left his corporate job in 2013 to dive into corporate social responsibility, where he garnered invaluable insights into waste management and upcycling.

In 2015, Bhatt launched his first venture in Pune, working with local households to train artisans in handloom techniques. However, after a few challenges, the initiative didn’t thrive, leading him to re-evaluate his approach. In 2020, buoyed by his passion and determination, he relaunched his vision as EcoKaari, a name that blends eco-friendliness with craftsmanship.

Starting with just two artisans during the pandemic, EcoKaari gained unexpected traction when a social media influencer showcased their story. The resulting viral video propelled orders from across India and beyond. Today, the enterprise employs 25 artisans, who create products from single-use plastics like polythene bags and multi-layered wrappers. They carefully source materials from waste-picking organizations, corporates, and even eco-conscious citizens who send in plastic waste from around the country.

Bhatt’s commitment to sustainability has led EcoKaari to upcycle an impressive 20 million plastic bags, converting 5,000 to 10,000 kg of plastic every month. The social enterprise now boasts a monthly revenue of Rs 8 lakh, while providing livelihoods to local artisans. Corporate clients and export partners from countries like Australia, Dubai, and the UK have also turned to EcoKaari, recognizing the value of its eco-friendly products.

The process of transformation begins with the collection and meticulous cleaning of plastic waste, which is then sun-dried and processed using traditional handloom techniques and charkha (spindle). The resulting fabric is not only functional but embodies a commitment to environmental conservation and social responsibility.

Bhatt’s story is one of resilience and vision, as he navigated the complexities of launching a sustainable enterprise during a pandemic. EcoKaari stands as a testament to how creativity can turn environmental challenges into opportunities, empowering artisans and promoting a circular economy. With each handcrafted item, Bhatt hopes to inspire others to rethink waste and its potential, proving that even a single person can make a significant impact on the planet.

As EcoKaari continues to grow, Bhatt remains dedicated to his mission of sustainability, craftsmanship, and community empowerment, proving that the fight against plastic waste can indeed start from one man’s vision in Pune.

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