In this episode of Cool It Down, Rishika Reddy and Dr. Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad delve into the urgent need for sustainable packaging and its role in combating environmental challenges.

Rishika shares the story behind the creation of The Mend, a sustainable packaging venture born during the pandemic, and discusses the hurdles of shifting consumer and business mindsets towards eco-friendly options.

Dr. Gaikwad sheds light on the environmental impact of traditional packaging, particularly plastics, and introduces innovative alternatives such as pine needle-based paper and cactus biopolymers.

Together, they explore the complexities of the circular economy, the balance between convenience and sustainability, and the future of biodegradable and smart packaging technologies.

The episode also offers practical advice for aspiring sustainability entrepreneurs and emphasizes the collective power of individual actions in driving meaningful change.

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Host: RJ Sayema

Created by: BBC Media Action India

Supported by: U.S. Department of State