READ, REUSE, RECREATE: Giving New
Life to Old Books and Magazines
Social Media Campaigns for the Collection of Magazines and Books
We launched a potent social media drive to collect old magazines and books. Exploiting Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, our dynamic two to three-day campaign inspired friends and family to generously donate. The resonance of our cause reverberated through digital channels, leaving a lasting mark on our close-knit community. Our campaign symbolized collective benevolence, using vibrant images and captions to highlight the value of giving old books a fresh start. The call to action resonated widely, evoking heartwarming support from friends and family who reconnected with cherished stories. This interactive journey fostered shared experiences, amassing reading materials and fostering camaraderie, reinvigorating literature through goodwill.
On-Ground Work Execution
- Collection of Old Magazines And Books
We embarked on a mission to gather used magazines and
neglected books, reaching out to family members and
friends who shared our passion for donating. As we
collected these literary treasures, we took care to assess
the paper quality. This was crucial because the used
books and copies we accumulated would be repurposed
for crafting golgappa cups. With a team of five dedicated
members, each contributing over 20 books and a variety
of magazines, our efforts resulted in an impressive
collection. In total, we gathered around 80 to 85 unused
books and 30 magazines, a testament to our collaborative
determination and commitment to sustainability.
- Survey at Golgappa stall in Silchar
our volunteer engaged in survey
Having gathered magazines and
books, our attention turned to a
significant task – surveying
nearby golgappa vendors. At
different locations at Silchar, we
aimed to convince vendors to
switch from plastic to ecofriendly paper cups for serving golgappas, prioritizing a greener
approach to their business
practices.
In these interactions, we discussed the
environmental benefits of shifting to
paper cups with vendors. Many were
receptive, showing interest and engaging
in discussions. Some asked about the
change's execution, indicating a
willingness to consider the shift. A few
vendors inquired about the logistics of
implementing paper cups, and we
provided insights and samples. This
engagement revealed the potential for
eco-friendly practices, aligning with our
report's focus.
- Testing Samples Before Distribution
testing the viability of our handmade cups
In our process, we meticulously
craft preliminary samples prior
to distribution. This step allows
us to thoroughly evaluate the
need for potential adjustments
while also actively seeking input
from the puchkawalas, who
bring valuable on-the-ground
insights. Through rigorous
testing and analysis, we can
discern a comprehensive array
of essential factors, including:
- Water leakage occurs after 10-20 golgappas.
- The need for enhanced paper quality.
- The requirement for thicker paper.
- Some golgappa stalls declined our idea of providing paper and magazine cups.
Making of cups
After testing multiple samples, we have gathered
comprehensive information about the cups, and
we are now fully prepared to commence the
production process. Our first step is to enhance
the quality of our papers. Secondly, we've found
that the cups start leaking after 10 to 20 uses, so
we use two layers of paper to ensure the cups
prevent leaking. We also conducted testing on
the cups at home. In total, we have successfully
created 347 cups.
Distribution
handmade paper cups by our team
We were actively involved in distributing paper
cups to the golgappa stall. While we did face some
initial rejections, we were able to find three golgappa stall vendors who enthusiastically embraced
our paper cups and even replaced their factory made cups with them. Detailed information about
these golgappa stall can be found on the next page.
During our interaction, we proposed selling paper
cups to them (e.g., 50 cups for 5 rupees), and they
readily agreed to the idea. They also requested the
contact information for the NGO. In addition to
this initiative, we also provided the golgappa stall with old books to support their businesses.
In total, we distributed 345 cups to them. Despite
encountering issues with the initial batch'
s
quality, similar to the first set of 345 cups, the golgappa stall declined to take them. However, we
improved the quality for subsequent batches.
To enhance our engagement, we affixed stickers
onto their carts and took photographs together.
A collection of these distribution photos can be
found on the page following the informational
section.
Feedback from Golgappa Stall Owner
1. The adoption of paper cups is being well received by individuals, showcasing a
commendable level of acceptance.
2. On a daily basis, we witness the utilization of a
significant quantity, precisely 100 paper cups,
meeting diverse needs.
whole team of volunteers near a golgappa stall
Executed by Volunteers:
Arnab Chakraborty, Priya Joisy, Anupam Saha, Prasiddha Dey & Nandita Saha
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