Shillong: A critical roundtable discussion on waste management was held at IIM Shillong, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for sustainable waste solutions in Shillong.
Organized by the Northeast Centre for Community Impact and Engagement (NE-CCIE), the event brought together representatives from various organizations, including the Meghalaya Institute of Governance, Bethany Society, OCU, and Synjuk ki Nongsynshar Shnong Nongthymmai Pyllun.
The event was inaugurated by Prof DP Goyal, Director of IIM Shillong, who emphasized the importance of collaboration between academic institutions, government bodies, and local communities to tackle waste management issues. Col Dinesh Adhikari, CAO of IIM Shillong, highlighted innovative practices on the campus aimed at reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
Dr. Teidorlang Lyngdoh, Chair of NE-CCIE, moderated the session, guiding discussions on community-driven and innovative approaches to waste management. Key points discussed during the event included:
• Segregation and Awareness: Proposals for public education on waste segregation, including the introduction of labeled bins for organic and non-organic waste and launching awareness campaigns.
• Water ATMs: Installation of water ATMs in strategic locations to reduce single-use plastic dependency and address public health concerns.
• Community Engagement: The importance of training local youth to lead waste management initiatives, fostering community ownership and creating employment opportunities.
• River Stewardship: Engaging riverside communities to reduce pollution and restore ecological balance by actively managing water resources.
• Recycling and Commercialisation: Establishing recycling centers and composting facilities to turn waste into economic resources, with an emphasis on upcycling and generating energy from waste.
• Government Collaboration: The need for supportive policies and infrastructure, urging local authorities to incentivize waste segregation and recycling.
• Pilot Projects and Data: The significance of pilot projects and data collection to understand waste generation patterns and develop tailored solutions for both urban and rural areas.
The session concluded with a shared commitment to advancing sustainable waste management practices in Shillong, emphasizing that innovation, community participation, and policy support are essential for creating a cleaner and more sustainable urban environment.
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