There is a global push for sustainability, and initiatives like WeAct stand out as a change in the battle against plastic pollution. With a firm commitment to environmental stewardship, WeAct has been reducing plastic packaging through innovative strategies and awareness among its women members. From grassroots efforts to corporate partnerships, WeAct tackles this pressing issue head-on, offering a range of sustainable packaging solutions to rural women entrepreneurs.
One of the primary ways WeAct is making an impact is through education and awareness campaigns on their social media handles. WeAct empowers women to make informed choices and advocate for change. Additionally, WeAct actively promotes alternatives to plastic packaging, showcasing sustainable options and inspiring consumers to embrace eco-friendly alternatives.
From providing eco-friendly packaging to implementing it, here are seven ways WeAct is making a difference in reducing plastic waste worldwide:
1.Membership for Eco-friendly Enterprises
WeAct’s exclusive membership is tailored specifically for women who own eco-friendly enterprises. We aim to create a supportive system that promotes sustainable businesses. Our membership offers a range of benefits, including access to networking opportunities, mentorship programmes, and resources to meet the needs of registered women in the eco-friendly business sector. We believe in the power of women to drive positive change, and by providing a platform to practise sustainability, we hope to catalyse even greater innovation and impact in the area of environmental sustainability.
2.Sustainable Packaging Solutions
WeAct introduces rural women to innovative product development concepts and offers environmentally friendly packaging solutions. We conduct thorough market research on packaging and customise designs specifically for women. Several members have embraced sustainable packaging for items like soap, body lotion, multi-grain mixes, etc. As a result, they've noticed a significant uptick in sales since transitioning to eco-friendly packaging options.
3.Awareness Initiatives for Members
Our mobilisation and awareness programmes aim to educate rural women and their communities about sustainable business practices. Through these initiatives, many women have expressed interest in maximising the use of waste materials. For instance, some have inquired about creating disposable plates from sugarcane waste, commonly referred to as bagasse. WeAct assists them in understanding the process: After extracting the sugar-rich juice from the sugarcane, the remaining canes are gathered and converted into pulp. This pulp is then mixed with water to form a paste, which can be moulded into various shapes such as plates, bowls, lids, and even menu boxes.
4.Reusable Packaging Alternatives
WeAct members use reusable packaging alternatives. By encouraging customers to opt for refillable containers and bags, WeAct minimises the demand for single-use plastics. Whether it's for groceries, household items, or personal care products, choosing reusable packaging is a simple yet effective way to cut down on plastic waste.
5.Recycling and Upcycling Products
Numerous WeAct members engage in crafting, recycling, and upcycling items. They repurpose leftover fabric into bags and masks, while some businesses specialise in creating bags from plastic waste. These ventures have successfully accessed markets to showcase and sell their eco-friendly goods. Many customers express interest in personalised recyclable products, particularly using their sarees.
6.Social Media Campaigns to Raise Awareness
WeAct believes that knowledge is key to driving meaningful change. Our social media educational campaigns and outreach initiatives raise awareness about the environmental impact of plastic packaging. Our consumers get information about how to practise being eco-friendly, and we provide them with sustainable purchasing options and tips on how to make lifestyle changes to save our planet. If consumers are empowered with the necessary knowledge about eco-friendly practices, they can gradually reduce their plastic footprint.
7.Future Directions and Challenges
The biggest challenge for WeAct is to convince entrepreneurs to opt for eco-friendly packaging and reduce their plastic use. Moving forward, embracing innovative, sustainable materials for women is of the utmost importance. Biodegradable alternatives and the use of recycled plastics can significantly reduce the environmental impact of packaging.
However, hurdles such as the cost-effectiveness of alternatives, consumer behaviour, and the global scale of plastic pollution remain significant challenges. Educating consumers about the importance of reducing plastic usage will bring about a sustainable shift. Moreover, collaborative efforts among governments, businesses, and WeAct women will be helpful in overcoming these challenges.
Final Thoughts
WeAct is not just reducing plastic packaging; they're initiating a movement that empowers women, promotes sustainable businesses, and educates their families. From grassroots-level awareness programmes to product development, WeAct's impact reverberates across various sectors: food and agro, handloom and handicrafts, and household supplies. Our platform for eco-friendly entrepreneurs will continue to offer sustainable packaging solutions and spearhead awareness campaigns.
Please call us at 080-23119361 to have eco-friendly packaging solutions for your business.
References
https://www.wwf.org.uk/updates/top-tips-reduce-your-plastic-footprint
https://www.epa.gov/plastics/what-you-can-do-reduce-plastic-waste
https://www.futurelearn.com/info/blog/how-to-reduce-plastic-waste
https://www.biofutura.com/en/materials/sugarcane