Founder Message
Every year, the world produces over 2 billion tonnes of solid waste. India, the second most populous country in the world, contributes millions of tonnes, much of it ending up in open dumping sites that pollute soil, air, and water. In urban India alone, 62 million tonnes of waste are generated annually, yet only a fraction is treated safely. These uncontrolled dumping sites harm both communities and the environment, creating urgent challenges for sustainable living.
Growing up in a middle-class family, I worked in a leather factory during my school years and witnessed first-hand the harmful effects of unmanaged waste. That experience sparked my passion for waste management. Later, I completed my master’s in behavioural studies on the occurrence of waste generation. Through research and fieldwork in waste management, circular economy, and community development, I observed how inefficient systems expose vulnerable communities, such as rag-pickers, to hazards while limiting their opportunities. A pivotal moment in 2018 shaped my journey: I met a student whose mother worked as a rag-picker. Their struggles mirrored my own early challenges and highlighted the urgent need to empower those who manage our waste, ensuring they can live with safety, dignity, and opportunity. This experience inspired me to found AIMABIG ECOTECH FOUNDATION in 2023.
AIMABIG, it does not represent someone’s aim should big or small. AIMABIG meaning “loving” in Filipino, embodies our philosophy pursuing meaningful change with passion, compassion, and persistence. It is not about chasing success or obtaining things one loves. Whether the object of love is big or small, the focus lies in acting with care and commitment, consistently pursuing your passion while learning and growing. We believe that waste is a resource in the wrong place. Our mission is to create a user-friendly, eco-friendly, and sustainable waste management system while developing skills, providing tools, and sharing knowledge that prevent waste from ending up in dumping sites. We empower rag-pickers, cleaning workers, youth, women, households, and communities to transform waste into a valuable resource, creating circular and sustainable solutions that protect both people and the environment.
Our work goes beyond managing waste; it provides practical solutions to grassroots challenges. Every individual we support contributes meaningfully to environmental protection, zero-waste initiatives, and sustainable living. Rag-pickers and cleaning workers become professional resource managers, equipped with skills, knowledge, and tools to safely manage waste and lead more dignified lives. Through these efforts, we are demonstrating that when communities are empowered and waste is managed responsibly, local action can drive global impact.
Support AIMABIG and join us in transforming waste into opportunity, empowering communities, building skills, and protecting the environment today!
“Build a Skill to Fill the Gap, Till the Needs Sprout the Seeds.” — AIMABIG
Thanks with Regards
Founder – Aimabig