Henkel India, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Navi Mumbai – Joy of Giving, and with support from the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC), has successfully converted Plaster of Paris (PoP) Ganesha idols into durable educational assets under Project HARMONY. This circular reuse initiative not only prevents environmental pollution but also provides long-term benefits to local communities.
During Ganesh Visarjan 2025 in Nerul, over 1,000 kg of PoP idols were collected and redirected from water bodies and landfills. The material was processed through an authorised recycling facility, with NMMC officials supporting the on-ground operations. The reclaimed PoP was then transformed into 300 study tables for students at an NMMC school in Digha, ensuring a lasting learning infrastructure while reducing urban waste.
Launched in 2024, Project HARMONY—part of Henkel India’s flagship CSR programme “Henkel and Rotary: Mother Nature & You”—focuses on sustainability through collaboration, corporate expertise, and community engagement. S. Sunil Kumar, Country President of Henkel India, said, “By converting PoP Ganesha idols into learning assets, we are addressing urban waste challenges through circular, community-led action.”
The initiative was executed in collaboration with Dr. Binish Desai, the Recycle Man of India, through Pushpam and NuoTerra, using their proprietary PoP recycling technology. Volunteers from Beach Please India, led by Malhar Kalambe, supported collection efforts. Pushpam’s women-led team crafted the recycled material into study tables under NuoTerra’s quality supervision. Dr. Desai noted, “With the right intent, idol immersion can create lasting societal value, ensuring devotion benefits communities long after the festival.”
The study tables were distributed on 22 January 2026 at Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Vidyalaya, Rabale, coinciding with Ganesh Jayanti. Harsh Makol, District Governor 2025–26, Rotary International District 3142, added, “This collaboration demonstrates how corporate, civic, and sustainability partners can turn environmental responsibility into tangible community impact.”
Through Project HARMONY, Henkel India, Rotary, NMMC, and sustainability partners continue to showcase how circular solutions can protect the environment, support education, and strengthen urban resilience.
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