Meet Somini Sen Dua: Kolkata’s Climate Crusader Tackling Plastic Pollution with Miyawaki Forests and Sustainable Living

Somini Sen Dua, a passionate climate activist and the founder of the Mrittika Earthy Talks (MET) Foundation, has a compelling story. After a career as a lifestyle publicist and a personal loss during the pandemic, she turned to gardening as a source of healing and inspiration. This transformative experience ignited her desire to actively combat climate change.

In 2020, while exploring pottery, she delved into the realities of climate issues. She founded Mrittika to engage the community in protecting our planet. The name itself—Mrittika—serves as a reminder of our connection to the Earth.

At MET, the focus is on two pressing problems: urban afforestation and plastic pollution. One standout initiative is the Arannya project, which creates Miyawaki forests in Kolkata. This project has planted over 1,150 trees, contributing significantly to local biodiversity.

Plastic, once hailed as a revolutionary material, has become a curse. It permeates our environment, including our bodies through microplastics. Reports suggest that individuals may consume a credit card’s worth of plastic weekly, prompting MET to advocate for sustainable alternatives. They promote products like eco-friendly bags and upcycled fabric items to combat the plastic crisis.

A unique initiative by MET is the creation of ecobricks—PET bottles stuffed with single-use plastic. This not only reduces waste but also serves as building materials. Somini actively educates children on how to make these ecobricks, empowering the next generation to play a role in sustainability.

There is a noticeable shift in consumer behavior, especially among the youth. Many are turning away from fast fashion and embracing thrifting and upcycling. This trend reflects a broader change toward valuing health and happiness over material excess.

However, challenges remain. In Kolkata, the lack of waste segregation and low awareness among even educated individuals makes fighting plastic pollution difficult. Despite a ban on single-use plastics, production continues, raising questions about the availability of affordable, eco-friendly alternatives.

As for the future, MET plans to continue expanding urban greenery. Their successful Arannya project is a testament to their dedication. On World Earth Day, they run the #SOTO campaign, urging people to collectively reduce electricity and water use for ten minutes. This initiative emphasizes our shared responsibility to preserve natural resources.

While schools teach Environmental Science, Somini believes practical experiences are essential. Children must reconnect with nature, understand waste management, and appreciate biodiversity.

In conclusion, Somini’s message is clear: There is only one Earth. It’s crucial to combat plastic pollution, support urban afforestation, and adopt eco-friendly lifestyles. Protecting our planet is not just an act of charity—it’s about ensuring a viable future for generations to come.

For more insights into environmental issues and actions in India, check out the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

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