The Waste Warrior Project works directly with communities in eight migrant labour colonies in Bangalore to promote sustainable waste management practices. Our efforts begin with building a strong foundation—assembling a dedicated team of professionals who understand the local context and are committed to grassroots change.

We actively identify and engage with leaders from within the community (referred to as “Saathi Samuha”) and train individuals who now serve as waste management ambassadors within their colonies. These leaders are equipped with knowledge and resources to mobilise their communities, raise awareness, and support behavioural change around waste practices.

Educational workshops and interactive sessions form a core part of our approach. These sessions cover critical topics on waste management practices (such as waste segregation and composting) and the health risks associated with improper waste disposal. So far, these activities have reached more than 2,000 community members, creating a ripple effect of awareness and action on waste management practices.

To support improved waste segregation, we have also facilitated the installation of dustbins across all eight migrant colonies and coordinated with Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to ensure regular waste collection services. Additionally, we organise health camps that offer medical check-ups and educate residents on the health implications of living in unhygienic environments.

Women play a central role in this initiative. They have emerged as key agents of change within their communities, particularly in driving waste segregation practices. Many women are now responsibly segregating menstrual waste, ensuring hygienic disposal. As part of their learning during exposure visits, several women were also provided with menstrual cups, promoting both sustainability and menstrual health awareness.

As part of our community-level interventions, we also focus on identifying and reducing ‘black spots’—areas where garbage is habitually dumped. We take proactive measures to beautify these black spots, transforming them into clean and visually appealing spaces. These efforts not only improve hygiene and environmental conditions but also instil a sense of ownership and pride among community members.

While we currently focus on tracking wet waste—recording over 14,000 kilograms generated between January and March 2025—we also conduct awareness campaigns around the proper handling of dry waste and e-waste.  Our awareness initiatives have had a noticeable impact on the community’s understanding of e-waste management. Residents now recognise that e-waste can be sold, enabling them to generate additional income while actively contributing to the recycling process and promoting a cleaner, more sustainable environment.

Our goal in this Project is to shift perspectives and empower migrant communities to take greater responsibility for their waste.

At its core, the project seeks to raise awareness about proper waste segregation and disposal techniques. It is equally committed to reducing environmental pollution and minimising the health hazards caused by poor waste management. Above all, the initiative aspires to instil a sense of ownership within communities, encouraging them to take collective responsibility for maintaining their surroundings.

The next phase of the Waste Warrior Project will focus on scaling up training and capacity-building efforts. Plans are underway to develop a network of “community waste warriors” who will lead hyperlocal waste solutions. The project will continue to deepen community engagement and track measurable outcomes related to waste collection, segregation, and health. In addition, it aims to explore livelihood opportunities through recycling and income generation activities, creating an ecosystem where sustainability and economic empowerment go hand in hand.