The initiative was started off by a group called Namma Ooru Foundation, and the Kuppai Parties are slowly gaining momentum as their events are all about eco-consciousness. The group has been conducting events since the last six months and during these events, participants usually discuss about the need for source segregation and spread awareness on waste management. 

There is also a hands-on Feed-The-Bin activity, followed by a Q & A session. 

“Apart from this, we also host a Green Ninja Warrior programme for the kids. This will involve different activities for kids and make them aware of all concepts related to solid waste management,” explained Viji Ganesh,  who is the ‘Kuppai Officer’ of the organisation.

So how did all of this begin? “We got together three years ago. Over the time, our volunteer base improved and we decided to focus on many things, but currently it is solid waste management. The perception of the public should change and they should start looking at wastes as a resource – that’s our priority,” she said.

Viji further added that people from here go abroad, marvel at the roads there but come back home and litter our roads. “We believe it is the duty of the Corporation to keep streets clean.”

The Kuppai Parties just don’t stop with these awareness programmes, they went ahead and conducted events at temples and schools; made the premises green and spread the word on composting and recycling. “We have also worked with communities, who aided in the segregation process,” Viji shared.

The group, which also aspire to be zero-waste families personally, also indulges in CSR activities and sponsors deserving communities. “We provide low-cost kits and starter packs to help communities begin the segregation process. The aim of this concept is people call us to host one in their neighbourhood, and invite the area people to participate,” she said.