EcoKaari is on a mission to turn plastic pollution into a canvas of tradition and sustainability. The name itself, a fusion of "Eco" and "Kaari" (Hindi for artisan), reveals their dedication to merging environmental responsibility with traditional craftsmanship. By transforming discarded plastic into handcrafted fabrics using traditional handlooms and charkhas (spindles), EcoKaari is not just creating textiles — it's reviving ancient skills while championing eco-conscious practices. Driven by core values of sustainability, empowerment, and innovation, EcoKaari is reshaping the narrative around waste. Their collaboration with the JSW Foundation amplifies these efforts, focusing on environmental conservation and community upliftment. From their stylish, practical bags to their seed collection that nurtures biodiversity, EcoKaari is redefining what it means to be both beautiful and impactful. Read on to learn more about EcoKaari.

Where are you based?
EcoKaari is based in Pune, Maharashtra, India.

What inspired you to create EcoKaari?
EcoKaari was inspired by the urgent need to address plastic pollution and create sustainable livelihoods. We wanted to find a way to turn waste into value while preserving traditional Indian craftsmanship.

What does your name, EcoKaari, mean?
EcoKaari combines "Eco," representing our commitment to the environment, and "Kaari," a Hindi word for Artisan, which means craftsmanship. Together, they signify eco-friendly craftsmanship.

You upcycle plastic waste into beautiful, handcrafted fabrics. How does this all work? Where do you get the waste from? How do you create your fabrics?
We collect plastic waste from various sources, including households, businesses, and clean-up drives. This waste is thoroughly cleaned and sun-dried, and then, using traditional handlooms and charkha (spindle), we weave this waste plastic into beautiful, durable fabrics, transforming waste into stylish and functional products.

You use a Charkha (spindle) and Handloom to create your pieces. Can you tell us a bit about what those are and how they work?
A Charkha is a traditional spinning wheel used for spinning thread or yarn. A Handloom is a manually operated loom used to weave fabric. Both tools are integral to our process, allowing us to create high-quality, handcrafted fabrics without relying on electricity or modern machinery and enabling livelihoods for women and youth from humble backgrounds.

What is the process of upcycling like? How do you ensure that your manufacturing process minimizes environmental impact?
Upcycling involves collecting, cleaning, and cutting plastic waste, which is then woven into fabrics using traditional charkha and handlooms. We minimize our environmental impact by using manual processes, reducing energy consumption (no electricity, heat, or chemicals), and promoting the reuse of plastic waste.

How do you incorporate traditional craftsmanship or techniques into your products?
We incorporate traditional Indian weaving techniques and craftsmanship into our products. Our artisans use skills passed down through generations, ensuring that our products are sustainable, culturally rich, and authentic.

How does your brand specifically empower and support underprivileged women and communities?
EcoKaari empowers underprivileged women and communities by providing them with skill development opportunities, fair wages, and safe working conditions. Training them in traditional weaving techniques, we help them gain financial independence and improve their quality of life.

What are some of the core values of your brand?
Our core values include sustainability, empowerment, craftsmanship, and innovation. We are committed to reducing plastic waste, supporting underprivileged communities, preserving traditional skills, and continuously finding innovative ways to create eco-friendly products.

What do you hope to achieve with your brand? Are there any messages you hope to send to your customers?
We aim to create a sustainable future by reducing plastic waste and promoting conscious consumerism. We strive to inspire our customers to make eco-friendly choices and support products that are beautiful and have a positive impact on the environment and society.

What challenges have you faced in upholding your brand and values? How have you overcome these challenges?
One of the biggest challenges has been changing consumer perceptions and encouraging them to value upcycled products. We have overcome these challenges by educating our customers, showcasing the quality and uniqueness of our products, and building strong partnerships that amplify our message.

You mostly focus on bags; what inspired this direction?
Bags are practical and widely used accessories, making them ideal products for upcycling. They provide a large canvas to showcase our handcrafted fabrics and functional items that customers can use daily, spreading awareness about our mission wherever they go.

Do you have a go-to product that you can’t live without?
Our tote bags are a favorite. They are versatile, durable, and stylish, making them a perfect everyday accessory.

You also have your seed collection, which is super fun. Can you tell us a little bit about this?
Our seed collection is an initiative to promote biodiversity and encourage people to grow their plants. We offer a variety of seeds that customers can plant and nurture, fostering a deeper connection with nature. The products are not manufactured in the EcoKaari workshop, but are supported by another group.

We heard that you are in partnership with the JSW Foundation. Can you tell us more about this partnership?
Our partnership with the JSW Foundation focuses on sustainability and community development. Together, we work on projects that promote environmental conservation, skill development, and social empowerment, aligning with our shared goals of creating a positive impact. We are currently supporting 57 women at the EKxJSW Unit in Karnataka.

Are there any upcoming projects you would like to share?
We are excited about launching some new products made from upcycled plastic.

It has been a crazy past few years; how have you been staying positive?
We have stayed positive by focusing on our mission and the impact we are making. Seeing the positive changes in the lives of our artisans and the growing awareness about sustainability keeps us motivated and hopeful for the future.

What is your motto in life?
Our motto is "Transform Waste, Transform Lives." We believe in the power of upcycling to create positive environmental and social change.

To learn more about EcoKaari, please follow the links below:
EcoKaari
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
LinkedIn
YouTube

EcoKaari - From Plastic Waste to Classic Taste