Mangaluru
Mangaluru has successfully completed a pioneering environmental campaign that collected nearly 12.5 tonnes of religious waste over ten days, setting a notable example for sustainable waste management in India.
The initiative was jointly led by Ramakrishna Math, Ramakrishna Mission, and the Swachha Mangaluru Foundation to address the growing issue of improper disposal of sacred and ritual materials. Organisers said the campaign aimed to ensure that religious items are handled with respect while also protecting the environment.
Five dedicated collection centres were established across the city, where residents deposited items such as old deity photographs, broken idols, bells, lamps, and other ritual objects. The response from the public was strong, leading to higher-than-expected collections.
According to officials, the drive gathered around 15,000 photo frames, 2,500 kg of idols and decorative materials, and 1,500 kg of paper and books, along with significant quantities of plastic, wood, and metal waste. Materials were carefully segregated to separate recyclable and non-recyclable components.
More than 150 volunteers and sanitation workers participated in the operation, ensuring systematic sorting and environmentally safe processing of all collected waste. During segregation, valuable metals such as silver, copper, and brass were recovered and later processed, generating nearly ₹1 lakh in value, which was donated to Kadri Manjunath Temple.
Organisers said the initiative offers a respectful alternative to the common practice of discarding religious items in public spaces or at home. They added that the pilot project will be expanded to other regions, promoting a model that blends tradition with environmental responsibility.