EcoKaari Awarded Tide Turners Plastic Challenge Champion 2025 at National Youth Summit

Another proud chapter in EcoKaari’s story unfolded at the National Youth Summit 2025, hosted at the United Nations House in Delhi by WWF India, the UN Environment Programme, and CEE. EcoKaari was honoured as the Tide Turners Plastic Challenge Champion 2025, a recognition that celebrates grassroots innovations fighting plastic pollution.

But this moment was about much more than an award. It was about a voice.
Representing EcoKaari’s artisan community, Lata Tai (Latika Marne), one of our incredible women artisans, took the stage to share her journey from a life of limited means to one of financial independence and dignity through sustainable livelihoods.

The audience erupted in applause when she said:
“Today, I support my family. I don’t need to ask my husband for money when I want to buy a gift. I can buy it myself for them!"

For Lata Tai, it was a day of many firsts. Her first flight, her first trip to Delhi, and her first time speaking at a global platform. Her courage and story moved everyone present, a true testament to the transformative power of empowerment.

We thank Mr Shombi Sharp (UN Resident Coordinator), Ms Dia Mirza (UN Environment Goodwill Ambassador for India), and Ms Rebecca Picard (Deputy High Commissioner, UN India) for honouring our efforts and inspiring us further. Our heartfelt gratitude also goes to Mr Ashley, Ms Ambreen, and the WWF India team for continuously believing in EcoKaari and helping us amplify the voices of our artisans.

This recognition is more than an accolade; it is a reminder that every small effort counts in turning the tide against plastic waste. At EcoKaari, we will continue to work on one plastic wrapper, one artisan, and one heartfelt story at a time.