Adar Poonawalla Clean City Initiative

One of the most inspiring highlights of this year has been the increasing involvement of young volunteers stepping up and taking responsibility for their city. At Adar Poonawalla Clean City Initiative (APCCI), cleanliness activities have always been at the heart of our work—beyond our day-to-day operations, actively engaging in large-scale public cleanliness drives across Pune. These initiatives include cleaning public spaces, riverbanks, areas around heritage sites, post-marathon clean-ups, and restoring cleanliness after major festivals. As we reflect on 2025, it stands out as a particularly special year, marked by meaningful participation and growing public awareness. A Visible Shift in Public Awareness This year witnessed a substantial increase in both the number of cleanliness drives and the volunteers who joined them. This growth clearly reflects a positive shift in citizens’ mindsets. People are no longer passive users of public spaces—they now want to actively con...

Adopting a sustainable mindset and transitioning to a zero-waste lifestyle can come with challenges. One common hurdle is the convenience factor. Disposable products are often more convenient and readily available, making it tempting to choose them over reusable alternatives. However, by planning ahead and being prepared with reusable items, we can overcome this challenge and make sustainable choices. Another challenge is the pressure from societal norms and expectations. It's important to remember that every small step towards sustainability counts, even if it doesn't align with the mainstream. Focussing on own progress and inspire others through actions will go a long way in contributing to a better planet . By leading by example, one can create a ripple effect and inspire others to join the zero waste movement. There are numerous resources and tools available to support the journey towards zero waste living . Online communities,  blogs , and social media platfo...