This EEP workshop series successfully engaged 60 School Eco Clubs and over 300 students and teachers across Gyalshing, Namchi, and Soreng (an Aspirational District) in Sikkim. The core of the initiative was a hands-on DIY project centered on crafting decorative Corn Husk Button Flowers and Bamboo Hair Clips. The primary goal was to introduce viable, biodegradable substitutes for Single-Use Plastics (SUP), directly supporting the principles of a Circular Economy and Mission LiFE. Beyond the craft itself, the workshops significantly focused on enriching livelihood skills by introducing practical, income-generating crafts at a young age; inspiring green skill Innovation and sustainable material use; and inculcating teamwork and a proactive morale for environmental action. A notable achievement was the successful introduction of a sustainable revenue model for the participating Eco Clubs, which was directly inspired by the successful efforts of the Adampool JHS Eco Club.
Furthermore, the program supplemented the practical activities with educational sessions using the ECOTOPIA Card Games on LiFE themes. This holistic approach is effectively future-proofing communities by building capacity for sustainable living, one craft at a time.
Outcome & Impact: Contributes to the local circular economy by promoting the use of agricultural waste (Maize Husk) and sustainable, locally available material (Bamboo) as value-added products, reducing resource strain. Enhanced awareness among consumers to carry own bag.