Stonesoup Trust

Stonesoup's comprehensive approach to waste management and sustainable living has yielded significant positive impacts across environmental, social, and economic dimensions. Environmental Impact: Reduction in Sanitary Waste: Through their sustainable menstruation campaigns, Stonesoup has successfully diverted 12 million disposable sanitary pads from landfills, mitigating the environmental hazards associated with non-biodegradable waste. Composting Initiatives: Stonesoup's composting units process 10 tonnes of wet waste daily, converting it into nutrient-rich compost. This not only reduces the volume of waste sent to landfills but also supports urban agriculture and improves soil health. Plastic Waste Reduction: Stonesoup has been a prime catalyst of the plastic ban in Karnataka, leading to a positive impact on the state's residents and MSMEs. This model has been replicated in Maharashtra, further substantiating and validating Stonesoup's efforts and paving the way for mass impact. Additionally, their promotion of cloth bags has resulted in 5 million fewer plastic bags in circulation, reducing plastic pollution and its detrimental effects on ecosystems. Social and Economic Impact: Women's Employment: Stonesoup has created green employment opportunities for over 200 women through their Green Dot Centers. These centers empower women by providing them with steady income and financial independence while they play a crucial role in managing waste collection, segregation, and processing. Sustainable Menstruation Awareness: Stonesoup has sensitized 100,000 women about sustainable menstruation practices in partnership with the government. This initiative has further led to a ripple effect, positively influencing approximately 500,000 individuals. Community Engagement: Stonesoup’s initiatives have positively impacted communities across several districts in India, including Dharwad, Mandya, Dindugal, Jamshedpur, Siddipet, Pune, and Barmer. The implementation of cloth pad-making units in these regions has not only provided sustainable menstrual hygiene solutions but also created local employment and promoted health and hygiene practices. Kannamangala Waste Management Project: The Zero Waste Gram Panchayat initiative in Kannamangala is a prime example of Stonesoup's impact. This project has transformed waste management practices in the village, achieving over 85% waste segregation at the source within just 15 days of implementation. Currently, 26 women are employed in this project, with plans to impact 50 women in the second phase. The success of this model has led to its adoption in other low-income areas, gated communities, and commercial establishments. Stonesoup's initiatives demonstrate a scalable and sustainable model that not only addresses the critical issue of waste management but also creates economic opportunities and fosters community resilience. Their holistic approach ensures a lasting positive impact on the environment and society.