In this episode of Cool It Down, we explore the deep connections between overconsumption, waste, and climate change. In conversation with RJ Sayema, Vimlendu Jha discusses the urgent need for a cultural shift towards personal responsibility in reducing consumption, while highlighting entrepreneurial opportunities in the circular economy and upcycling.

Peepal Baba shares his journey of planting 25 million trees, and the vital role vegetation plays in cooling the planet and enhancing biodiversity.

Finally, Saurabh Mehta, founder of BioQ, discusses the challenges and rewards of creating sustainable products in the stationery industry, focusing on balancing eco-friendliness, durability, and affordability. Together, these speakers offer a hopeful perspective on how individuals and businesses can make a lasting impact on the planet.

We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6j

Additionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions. Feel free to email us at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.org.

Host: RJ Sayema

Created by: BBC Media Action India

Supported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool it Down, we dive deep into the critical connection between plastic and climate change, exploring the long-lasting impact of plastic on the environment, particularly the dangers of single-use plastics. We discuss strategies like reducing, reusing, and recycling plastic, while examining the role of governments, consumers, and businesses in adopting alternatives.

RJ Sayema speaks to Matthew Jose, founder and CEO of Paperman who shares insights on waste management and recycling, including how his company helps brands reduce plastic use through an Extended Producer Responsibility initiative. He also addresses the economic value of recycling, the importance of better waste management infrastructure, and the challenges of tackling landfill waste.

We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6j

Additionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions. Feel free to email us at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.org.

Host: RJ Sayema

Created by: BBC Media Action India

Supported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool it Down, we speak with climate optimist and sustainability champion Aakash Ranison, alongside Saket Dave, Founder and CEO of Forplanet Ingredients (formerly Wastelink), and Dr. Kalpana Sastry, an agricultural scientist.

Aakash shares his journey, highlighting his beliefs about climate change and the urgent need for action. Dr. Sastry explains how food waste begins at the farm level and continues through the processing and consumption stages. The discussion also explores how changing food habits impact climate change and the importance of returning to traditional practices.

Aakash underscores the power of optimism and belief in driving positive environmental change. Saket discusses how food waste contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and outlines how his company transforms food waste into animal feed, reducing its carbon footprint. He also offers advice to aspiring entrepreneurs addressing climate-related challenges and suggests practical ways individuals can help reduce food waste.

We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6j

Additionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions. Feel free to email us at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.org.

Host: RJ Sayema

Created by: BBC Media Action India

Supported by: U.S. Department of State