Sattva Group, in partnership with Knowledge Realty Trust and rePurpose Global, has launched the Karnataka Zero Waste Initiative on Earth Day, aimed at building structured, community-led waste management systems along the state’s coastline.

The three-year programme targets recovery of approximately 4.5 million kg of waste, integration of 50 coastal villages into formal waste systems, and connection of over 80,000 households to organised waste management networks. It also aims to support 200 waste workers through livelihood generation, skill development, and safer working conditions.

The initiative addresses rising plastic waste across Karnataka’s 320 km coastline, where plastic constitutes nearly 60 per cent of coastal litter. It focuses on decentralised, financially viable systems that improve segregation, collection, and processing at source while reducing environmental leakage into marine ecosystems.

Shivam Agarwal, Vice President – Strategy, Sattva Group, said, “Through the Karnataka Zero Waste Initiative, we are enabling structured, community-led waste management systems that strengthen local practices while creating more secure and dignified livelihoods.”

Jiji Thomas, Head – ESG & Sustainability, Knowledge Realty Trust, added, “By supporting integrated waste systems, we are embedding sustainability into our operations and the ecosystems that support them.”

The programme is being implemented with support from the Centre for Applied Research and People’s Engagement, combining on-ground execution, research-led methodologies, and governance frameworks to ensure scalable and measurable impact.

With a strong emphasis on awareness and behavioural change, the initiative aims to drive a circular approach to material use while building a replicable model for sustainable coastal waste management.