TCSRD takes a step towards eliminating plastic waste with cloth bag vending machines
20th September 2024, Dwarka – Tata Chemicals Society for Rural Development (TCSRD), the CSR wing of Tata Chemicals Limited, launched a new initiative aimed at reducing plastic waste through the installation of a ‘cloth bag vending machine’.
The inaugural machine was officially unveiled on September 16, 2024, at the Beyt Dwarka Temple by Honourable MLA Shree Pabubha Manek, in the presence of Mr. N. Kamath, Chief Manufacturing Officer at Tata Chemicals, Mr. Gaurang Bhatt, GPCB Officer, Taluka Panchayat Pramukh Shree Devi Singh, and other distinguished dignitaries. MLA Shree Pabubha Manek cut the ribbon and purchased the first cloth bag from the machine, commending its quality.
This initiative highlights a dual benefit. Firstly, Self Help Groups (SHGs) under TCSRD are engaged in the production of the cloth bags, and secondly, the bags are sold through the vending machine by “Nirantar”, a group that supports people with disabilities, providing them with meaningful livelihood opportunities. This project serves as both an environmental and a social empowerment effort, addressing plastic waste reduction while offering economic support to the differently abled.
Mr. N. Kamath, Chief Manufacturing Officer at Tata Chemicals, said, "This initiative brings together two important aspects – reducing plastic waste and supporting livelihoods. We will be expanding this project further in the coming days with more machines at Nageshwar Temple, Dwarka Temple, and within the Tata Chemicals Township".
The vending machine operates like an ATM, allowing users to receive a cloth bag by inserting a Rs 10 coin. With a capacity to hold up to 300 bags, the machine aims to offer a practical, eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastics. This initiative demonstrates TCSRD's commitment to fostering sustainable practices while promoting community welfare, setting an example for future environmental and social projects.
About TCSRD
Established in 1980, the primary aim of Tata Chemicals Society for Rural Development (TCSRD) is to initiate and support community development programmes in and around regions where Tata Chemicals Limited facilities are located. And while each region is different in terms of geographic spread, subcultures and socio-economic requirements, TCSRD strives to protect, nurture and uplift the communities by adopting an integrated approach to development and designing region-specific need-based programmes.
Website: https://www.tcsrd.org/
About Tata Chemicals Limited
A part of over US$ 165 billion Tata Group, Tata Chemicals Limited is a leading supplier of choice to Glass, Detergent, Industrial and Chemical sectors. The company has a strong position in the crop protection business through its subsidiary company, Rallis India Limited. Tata Chemicals has world-class R&D facilities in Pune and Bangalore.
Website: https://www.tatachemicals.com/