There’s something special about our hometowns. Many of us dream of returning to where we grew up, like I did after years living abroad. I moved back to Delhi to be with my aging parents, but I soon faced harsh realities. Delhi’s extreme heat and polluted air impacted my health, and I developed COPD.
After this wake-up call, I made a conscious effort to live differently. I started with reducing waste at home. I traded showers for bucket baths and reused any plastic containers I got. However, the problem of overconsumption was everywhere.
In 2017, I launched a social experiment with a friend. We created a Facebook group called ‘The Minimalists of Delhi.’ Our goal was to inspire change and promote a culture of sharing. We kicked off our project during the festive season when many were busy buying new clothes. We invited friends to share items they no longer needed.
We wanted to divert waste from landfills and encourage a circular lifestyle. I later discovered studies showing that reusing textiles has an environmental impact 70 times lower than making new ones.
What began with a simple request for a wedding saree turned into a community of over 600 members. People started trading clothes and furnishings, all without spending a dime. Some even found job-ready outfits through our group!
Of course, it wasn’t easy. In a society where used items are often seen as inferior, we faced skepticism. But slowly, opinions changed. Today, younger generations, particularly Gen Z, approach reuse with creativity and urgency, viewing it as a form of rebellion.
These small actions give me hope. As we confront issues like ocean acidification and pollution, I believe that if we each act thoughtfully, we can create a better future.
While our initiative helped promote mindful consumption, it feels like just a drop in the ocean. Delhi’s growing uninhabitability and recent environmental judgments weigh heavy on my heart.
Now, after eight years and with my parents gone, I’ve decided to move to Bangalore by April 2026. I recognize the privilege in this choice, yet the loss feels significant. I will leave behind a network of friends, trusted doctors, and cherished memories. But being confined to air purifiers and air conditioning isn’t a life I want anymore.
Looking at our changes, experts note that communities that embrace sustainability help not only the environment but also each other, creating bonds through shared values and experiences. As we navigate these challenges, every small act of kindness counts.
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Delhi,sustainability,Air Pollution,Recycling,Anxiety in a warming world
