Shilshila Acharya is a prominent figure in Nepal’s environmental movement. With her campaign “No Thanks, I Carry My Own Bag,” she played a key role in banning plastic bags nationwide.
An influential voice in sustainable development, Shilshila also co-founded Avni Ventures, one of Nepal’s largest plastic recycling networks. This initiative empowers women from marginalized communities, offering them work and a sense of purpose.
Shilshila’s passion for environmental activism began at a young age. She credits her love for reading, especially non-fiction, for shaping her understanding of nature and society. Books have been her tools for exploring complex issues and driving change.
In a recent conversation, Shilshila shared how literature has influenced her approach to climate activism. “Reading has always been a cornerstone of my career,” she said. One significant book is “Small Is Beautiful” by E.F. Schumacher, which emphasizes that small-scale solutions can be more effective for the planet.
Her experience restoring an ancient water system (hiti) taught her that quick fixes can lead to greater problems. A contractor used heavy machinery for expedience, but it damaged the fragile structure. This reinforced her belief in careful, gradual approaches to environmental issues.
Shilshila believes reading can significantly shape how young people view the environment. She highlighted the difference between her generation, which was exposed to environmental ideas, and younger generations. Reading diverse materials can help youth understand the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic issues.
She emphasized that discussions about climate should be politically driven. In Nepal, linking climate change to social issues, like supporting indigenous women, has garnered more attention and led to effective advocacy.
Balancing activism and reading can be tricky. Shilshila finds that both pursuits complement each other. “Reading helps me ground myself in knowledge,” she explained. She values a diverse understanding, recognizing that complex problems require multidisciplinary solutions.
Here are five book recommendations from Shilshila that have inspired her:
- Small Is Beautiful by E.F. Schumacher: A game-changer for her view on development and its impact.
- The Junkyard Planet by Adam Minter: Offers insights into global waste management practices.
- Drawdown by Paul Hawken: An action-oriented guide with solutions for tackling climate change.
- The Hindu Manifesto by Swami Vigyananand: Explores sustainable models rooted in Eastern philosophy.
- 21 Lessons for the 21st Century by Yuval Noah Harari: Addresses key multidisciplinary challenges of our times.
Shilshila Acharya stands as an example of how literature and activism can intertwine, fostering a more sustainable future for all. As we face increasing environmental challenges, her journey reminds us of the importance of awareness and connection in tackling these pressing issues.
