Dimapur, May 7: Marking a significant step towards sustainable waste management and community-led environmental action, Living For Environment (LiFE) on Thursday launched Nagaland’s first community-based decentralized waste sorting unit, the DiWas Hub, at Forest Colony, Dimapur.

The initiative aims to promote systematic waste segregation, recycling, and environmentally responsible disposal practices while encouraging citizens to actively participate in building cleaner and more sustainable communities.

Speaking at the launch programme, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Territorial), Supongnukshi, emphasized the urgent need for innovative approaches to waste management. He said waste should no longer be viewed merely as a burden, but as an opportunity that can be harnessed productively through recycling and sustainable practices. Stressing on innovation, he highlighted the importance of finding practical solutions that can convert waste into profitable and useful resources.

Divisional Forest Officer, Beizo Sekhose, underlined the importance of collective responsibility in addressing waste-related challenges. He stated that waste management cannot be achieved in isolation and requires cooperation from all sections of society. He called upon communities, institutions, and stakeholders to work together in creating effective and long-term solutions for cleaner surroundings.

Chief Executive Officer of Dimapur Municipal Council, Thungchanbemo Tungoe, said that society has for too long treated waste simply as a problem to be discarded. However, he noted that waste should instead be recognised as a valuable resource when managed properly. Highlighting the growing challenges faced by Dimapur due to rapid urban expansion, he said effective waste management is not the responsibility of the municipality alone, but a shared duty that requires participation from institutions, communities, and every individual citizen.

The launch programme highlighted the importance of decentralized waste management systems and community participation in addressing the increasing issue of unmanaged waste and environmental degradation in urban areas. Organisers stated that the DiWas Hub has been envisioned as a model initiative that can encourage responsible waste segregation practices at the community level while contributing towards a circular economy.

LiFE expressed hope that the initiative would inspire similar community-based waste management projects across Nagaland and create greater awareness on sustainable environmental practices among citizens.