Bhutha's plogging drive - Picking up with purpose

On the morning of world environment day 2025, We at Bhutha Earthen Architecture, as part of UNEP’s global call to #beatplasticpollution, gathered not to design, draw, or build, but to walk, observe, and take an initiative.

We set out on a plogging drive - a simple yet powerful activity that combines walking or jogging with picking up litter that we see around us. Starting from our office in Kovaipudur in high spirits, we walked through familiar roads, streets, and corners that we pass every day. But this time, our attention shifted from buildings and views to the trash in the community spaces around us that goes unnoticed.

people joining the initiative

We collected everything we could - plastic wrappers, soft drink bottles, even layers of old, dusty packaging wedged between stones. Trash that often goes unnoticed and quietly settles into the background of our community spaces, yet speaks volumes about our habits. Though tiring, the entire drive was filled with a strong sense of purpose - contributing to a clean surrounding for us to be in.

This is not just an initiative we took for the environment day, but a reflection of the lifestyle changes our team has adopted and embraced. From segregating our waste to moving away from single-use plastic, Team Bhutha has been actively trying to do its bit to positively contribute to society.

A walk through the neighborhood streets

After just three hours of plogging, we were tired with sweaty gloves, aching backs, and heavy sacks. And yet, this is everyday work for the waste pickers. What left us drained in the morning, they do daily - often without protective gear, without recognition, and without a pause. They clean up what we casually and mindlessly toss out. Throughout the event, a sense of gratitude washed over us for the helpers whose contributions go unnoticed.

This small act of picking up litter made us realize how much we take for granted. The least we can do is reduce our waste, dispose responsibly, and start seeing those who carry the weight of our carelessness every day.

A walk through the neighborhood streets

Real change begins with awareness and intention. A cleaner, healthier environment isn’t built in a day, but by everyday choices. Plogging was one step we adopted. The mindset it sparked - to notice, to act, to care is what will truly stay with us