November 2024

HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH

Change Makers in Action

Empowering Interns to Build a Cleaner Adugodi 

Namma Swachha Adugodi (NSA):

We are excited to announce the launch of the Namma Swachha Adugodi (NSA) project, starting next month. Under this initiative, we will adopt the entire Adugodi Ward and work towards improving its waste management system over the next three years. This project is funded by Bosch and implemented in collaboration with Let's Be The Change (LBTC) and Saahas.

As part of our preliminary community understanding, LBTC partnered with 44 Christ University students during their social work internship to conduct an initial survey. These students were briefed on the project and trained in waste segregation practices. They also visited the Dry Waste Collection Center (DWCC) and the Bio-Methanization Plant for hands-on learning.

The students engaged with the local community for surveys and extended their efforts to Church Street, where they surveyed vendors to understand their waste management behavior. Additionally, they visited our Ittumadu office to sort clothes collected during a drive held at Bosch on the 23rd and 24th of last month.

Stay tuned for more updates as we officially kick off this project in December 2024!

Cleanathon at Hanumantha Nagar:

On November 29th, 2024, the BBMP officials of Hanumantha Nagar approached us to address garbage dumping spots in their ward. We began with one such location, where passerby behavior had led to repeated waste accumulation.

With the support of BBMP officials, we cleaned the area and painted the walls with vibrant designs to discourage future dumping. Over 20 volunteers joined hands to beautify a stretch of 25–30 meters

We're Hiring!

As we expand our Solid Waste Management (SWM) project to cover the entire Adugodi Ward, we are hiring for the following positions:

• Program Manager

• Educator

For more details, please contact us at contact@letsbethechange.in.

Project Repurpose:

Following the successful creation of jeans pouches and tote bags last month, this month’s focus was on coaster-making. While the participants appreciated the initiative, some found the process tedious due to its labor-intensive nature.

In an exciting development, we piloted the creation of coconut shell bowls this month. The initial results have been promising, and we aim to train community members in this craft, enabling them to generate income from coconut shell waste.

These bowls are a sustainable alternative to single-use disposables like paper cups and bowls, aligning with our goal of minimizing waste and promoting eco-friendly practices.

Newsletter Quest:

Here’s a fun game to quickly conclude this month’s newsletter! Below are lists of items related to our recent activities. In each list, one item doesn’t belong—can you spot the odd one out? Be the first to submit and get featured in our next newsletter! Send your answer to +91 93532 18818.

1. Namma Swachha Adugodi (NSA):

   • Christ University students

   • Waste segregation training

   • Painting murals

   • Community surveys

     
     

2. Cleanathon at Hanumantha Nagar

   • Wall painting

   • Coconut shell bowls

   • Volunteer support

   • Addressing garbage spots

     
     

3. Project Repurpose

   • Tote bags

   • Coasters

   • Jeans pouches

   • Paper plates

Congratulations to Yamini for being the first to complete our challenge newsletter for the previous month!

Erudition Time:

Myth: Paper plates are eco-friendly.

Many are coated in plastic, making them hard to recycle and harmful to the environment. coatings and additives slow down decomposition, especially in landfills.

Instead, carry your plate to have chats or any other snacks.

What’s Your Take on Paper Plates?

• Yes, they’re biodegradable and eco-friendly
• No, they still contribute to waste and can be replaced with
• I’m not sure, tell me more!