As more climbers traverse the Himalayan peaks of the Indian subcontinent, the amount of garbage left behind is fast becoming a problem for the regional ecology and indigenous communities. The Avni Center for Sustainability and the Nepal Knotcraft Centre hit upon the idea of turning non-recyclable waste like ropes and cooking gas cans into jewellery boxes and table mats. In the deft hands of women from the Tharu community, waste becomes wealth and provides an economic lifeline for underserved communities. The world is changing rapidly as the climate heats up, but the women of the Tharu community show us that we can make a positive planetary difference by getting our hands dirty and thinking outside the box. Our new section, Green Living, will bring you closer to the people, places and organisations that exemplify the truest sense of living sustainably, one that factors in people, ecosystems and all manner of creatures to ensure their long-term survival and wellbeing.
A craftswoman holds a decorative item made of discarded climbing rope interwoven with Moonj, a traditionally harvested wild grass Photo: Tanka Dhakal
A craftswoman holds a decorative item made of discarded climbing rope interwoven with Moonj, a traditionally harvested wild grass Photo: Tanka Dhakal
