by Aditi Krishnan
WHAT’S HAPPENING
- After a successful cleanup effort in 2010, Mountain Cleaners, a group of volunteers from around the world, including many from India, is taking on the task of keeping the mountains in the Chamba area in Himachal Pradesh pristine and garbage-free.
- Mountain Cleaners is preparing to clear the trash in time for the annual Manimahesh Lake pilgrimage that takes place between 22 August and 5 September.
- The cleanup will include waste segregation, recycling biodegradable waste, preventing reckless burying/scattering or burning of non-biodegradable waste, and more.
- An estimated 5 lakh devotees are expected to undertake the challenging 14-km trek to Manimahesh Lake at 13,500 feet, to get a glimpse of Lord Shiva’s earthly abode, Mount Kailash (Sify.com, 18 July 2011).
WHAT THIS MEANS TO BUSINESS
- Successful social initiatives are motivating increasing number of urban educated youngsters to get actively involved in environmental cleanup operations. Many are also simultaneously contributing toward making fellow citizens aware of the benefits of eco-friendly practices.
- Volunteer jobs, especially those connected to the environment, have a cool quotient with youth. Youngsters would participate if it also provides them opportunities to meet like-minded people along the way.
RESOURCES
