Nithya, founder of the NGO Samhati, has been involved in the fight against waste management in Bangalore for nearly ten years. This city, which generates a considerable amount of waste, has seen the birth of a project aimed not only at recycling, but also at improving the living conditions of low-income women. Samhati, her initiative, focuses on reducing fabric and plastic waste by transforming it into useful products, while providing women with a source of income and the opportunity to improve their daily lives.

Recycling for a better life

One of Nithya’s first actions was to understand the quantity and nature of the waste produced by the city. Through this work, she identified an opportunity in recycling fabrics and plastics, which can be transformed into everyday objects. ‘The idea was to recycle some of the city’s waste,’ she explains. Among the products manufactured by Samhati are backpacks, shopping bags and wine bags, all made from recycled fabrics sourced from various sources, including her own family and friends.

A tangible social impact

Nithya emphasises the importance of the social impact of her work. ‘Most of the women come from the neighbourhood, where incomes are low,’ she says. Thanks to Samhati, these women have the opportunity to earn an income, which allows them to provide for their families’ daily needs and, in many cases, send their children to school. For Nithya, the social impact of her initiative is a source of ongoing motivation. ‘This is really where I want to make an impact in today’s world,’ she adds, emphasising the importance of empowering women in society.

An ever-evolving challenge

In addition to recycled fabrics, Nithya also works with a supplier in Chennai to obtain recycled wire, although in limited quantities. The challenge remains the availability and supply of recycled materials, but Nithya and her team are persevering. Through these efforts, Samhati is not only recycling materials, but also creating products that help raise awareness among the local population about the importance of recycling and reducing plastic waste.