The Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike’s (BBMP) efforts to promote waste segregation in the city faced several challenges. However, the efforts of a non-profit organisation in Domlur, Waste Wise Trust, seem to have overcome these with a rather inspiring model.

BBMP had set up a dry waste collection centre (DWCC) in Domlur in 2012, and Waste Wise Trust, with support from a group of concerned citizens ensured that it was a success. Embarking on an eco-friendly initiative, the centre has workers, including ragpickers, who diligently collect dry waste from residents in and around Domlur every week.

With some residents taking it upon themselves to spread the word around the neighbourhood, residents from other apartment complexes also began expressing interest. A year on, the scheme claims to be a resounding success; people are voluntarily contributing towards systematic disposal of garbage. The DWCC collects 600 kg of dry waste every week - compared with just 2.5 kg dry waste collected at BBMP-run centres elsewhere. The waste is then sold to be recycled.