FLO Pune, under the leadership of Chairperson Poonam Kochhar, organized a visit to EcoKaari Studio, a Pune-based social enterprise that up-cycles single-use plastic by converting it into chic, sustainable fashion products using charkha and handlooms. The visit was led by EcoKaari founder Shivalika to provide FLO members with a different look at textiles through a different lens.
EcoKaari upcycles single-use plastic waste, such as plastic carry bags, food wrappers, glittery gift papers, e-commerce plastic packaging, and audio/video tapes, and converts it into beautiful handcrafted fabrics handwoven by women and youth entrepreneurs from underprivileged backgrounds. This visit fostered a dialogue on upskilling opportunities for rural Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Discussions were held to support these SHGs in marketing, product design, and upcycling techniques through FLO Pune’s WUD courses.
There are potential collaboration opportunities with FLO Pune’s Sustainability Vertical for plastic waste collection drives, and the Digital Literacy Vertical to deliver WUD and Google certification courses to artisans, enabling skill development for EcoKaari’s workforce and rural SHGs.
Key Takeaways
- FLO members experienced how EcoKaari turns plastic waste into beautiful, fashionable products, which is carried out manually using charkha and handlooms, with sewing machines used only for final product manufacturing.
- The products come with a lifetime guarantee and can be sent back for mending.
- They promote a “ReLove” philosophy and graciously take back used products by offering a 20% discount.
- All plastic that cannot be recycled does not end up in landfills; it is efficiently collected and converted into fuel for commercial consumption.
- A beautiful integration of traditional weaving techniques while addressing ecological challenges like landfills and global warming.
Impact & Outcome
Around 15 members participated in the visit held at EcoKaari Studio. Collaboration opportunities were discussed where FLO and EcoKaari together can empower SHGs and artisans through upskilling and financial literacy workshops. Also, there are opportunities for EcoKaari to participate in FLO-led exhibitions and events, along with white labelling and gifting opportunities across various FLO chapters.