The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), an Indian governmental body, has initiated two enterprising ventures aimed at promoting eco-friendly practices and traditional craftmanship. The first of these initiatives includes the introduction of a ‘Terracotta Grinder’ in Varanasi, while the second project involves the production of plastic-infused handmade paper under the REPLAN (REducing PLAstic in Nature) project.
Launch of the First Terracotta Grinder
Stepping into a new era of sustainable pottery-making, KVIC has launched the very first Terracotta Grinder in Varanasi. This innovative machine is designed to grind wasted and broken pottery items for reuse in pottery-making instead of discarding them. With this initiative, KVIC aims to address the ever-present shortage of clays for pottery making and reduce the overall cost of production.
Manufacturing of Plastic-Mixed Handmade Paper: The REPLAN Project
To tackle the increasing concerns over plastic waste, the KVIC has come up with the REPLAN project. Under this initiative, waste plastic is carefully brought together, cleaned, chopped, and treated to achieve softness. Then, it is mixed into paper pulp at a ratio of 80% (pulp) and 20% (plastic waste) to produce a hybrid paper product that is both unique and eco-friendly.
How REPLAN Works
Under the REPLAN project, the aim is to create carry bags by integrating treated and processed plastic waste with cotton fibre rags. The resulting mixture, with a plastic to cotton fibre ratio of 20:80, leads to a highly durable paper material. This paper not only exhibits excellent strength but can also be used for a variety of purposes like making paper bags, fine tissues, and other paper-based items.
| Project | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Terracotta Grinder | Grinds wasted and broken pottery items for reuse | Reduces cost of production and addresses shortage of clays |
| REPLAN | Manufactures plastic-mixed handmade paper | Reduces plastic waste and produces strong durable paper |
Understanding Terracotta
Terracotta is a type of ceramic pottery that owes its existence to the baking of terracotta clay. The term “terracotta” is derived from Italian words that translate to “baked earth.” This earthenware pottery is renowned for its versatility and is frequently used in the creation of pipes, bricks, and sculptures, amongst other items.
Source: PIB