On June 5, 2024, celebrating World Environment Day, a team of 20 from AGL-Hakuhodo visited the Samadhaan Hub in Gurgaon. This field trip was more than a mere celebration; it was an educational venture into the heart of sustainable living and environmental stewardship. The visit was coordinated with IAmGurgaon, an NGO renowned for its dedication to environmental causes in the city.
The Venue: Samadhaan Hub
Situated in the bustling urban environment of Gurgaon, Samadhaan Hub is a focal point for sustainable practices and environmental education. The facility serves as a learning centre for the community, promoting the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle through various hands-on workshops and informative exhibits. It is a collaborative effort between multiple organisations, including IAmGurgaon, which has been instrumental in setting up and managing the hub’s activities.
The Learning Experience
Upon arrival, we were welcomed by representatives from IAmGurgaon and Samadhaan Hub who gave us a comprehensive tour of the facility, highlighting its innovative approach to waste management. We were explained how the hub integrates the 3 Rs into everyday operations: -
Reduce: We explored strategies to minimise waste generation at the source, including demonstrations of waste-reducing practices such as using sustainable packaging and promoting minimalistic consumption.
Reuse: We witnessed creative reuse projects like transforming discarded materials into functional and artistic items. These projects not only taught us how to reduce the burden on landfills but also fostered a sense of creativity and resourcefulness.
Recycle: The recycling section showcased converting waste into reusable materials. We observed the sorting of recyclables, the processing of different types of waste, and the manufacturing of recycled products. This section emphasised the importance of proper waste segregation and the role of recycling in the circular economy.
The Role of IAmGurgaon
IAmGurgaon has been a catalyst in transforming the urban landscape of Gurgaon through various environmental initiatives. Their collaboration with Samadhaan Hub exemplifies their commitment to sustainability. The NGO has played a critical role in raising awareness about the 3 Rs among the people of Gurgaon, organising collection drives, tree plantation events, and educational programs.
We learnt that their efforts extend beyond the hub, influencing city-wide practices in waste management and sustainability. Their partnerships with local authorities and other NGOs have led to the implementation of several successful environmental projects, making Gurgaon a cleaner and greener city.
AGL-Hakuhodo’s Contribution
We were truly motivated by the insights gained during the visit. We pledged to integrate the principles of reducing, reusing,, and recycling into our everyday lives. We also planned to initiate in-house waste reduction programs, promote the use of recycled materials in our operations, and encourage our fellow employees to adopt sustainable habits.
The visit to Samadhaan Hub was a transformative experience for us, marking a significant step towards embracing sustainability. The collaboration between AGL-Hakuhodo and IAmGurgaon on this World Environment Day underscored the importance of community involvement and corporate responsibility in addressing environmental challenges.
Through education and action, both organizations aim to foster a culture of sustainability in Gurgaon, ensuring that the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle are not just practised but embedded in the daily lives of its residents. The journey towards a greener future continues, driven by the collective efforts of businesses, NGOs, and the community at large.
Kali Walia
Senior Editor - Content