VISAKHAPATNAM: The Eastern Ghats Biodiversity Centre (EGBC), located in Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary in Visakhapatnam, is setting an example of sustainability and community empowerment through its Vana Sampada workshop. Located in Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary, Vana Sampada provides a platform for tribal women from Sambhuvanipalem village to make eco-friendly products for both everyday use and special occasions. Spread over 30 hectares, EGBC has transformed from a modest nursery into a thriving biodiversity hub, thanks to the dedication of the Visakhapatnam Forest Department and the vision of IFS officer Anant Shankar and Sub DFO Dharma Rakshith.

The centre has partnered with Be Earthly, a social enterprise founded by Manasa Tinnanuri and Spandana Ancha, with the aim of expanding their reach and promoting their eco-friendly products globally. Be Earthly’s mission is to empower tribal women through skill development programmes and showcase their sustainable creations to a wider audience. “Our main motto is to showcase their eco-friendly products to a wider audience through our startup, Be Earthly,” the founders said.

This partnership aims to provide tribal women with a sustainable source of income and improve their craftsmanship, as well as promote eco-friendly products and boost tourism at EGBC. “We invite corporates, business leaders, entrepreneurs, event agencies, restaurants, hotels and hospitality companies to support the empowerment of tribal communities. By ordering customized products in bulk from our center, they contribute to the economic revival of tribal communities and have a positive impact on their lives,” Manasa explains.

With Vinayaka Chaviti approaching in 45 days, the EGBC has given an innovative twist to the traditional clay idols. These idols, made of clay with seed balls, come with a pot of clay and cow dung. After the festival, instead of immersing the idols in local water bodies, they can be planted in the pots provided so that the seeds can grow into plants. This approach helps reduce water pollution and promotes greenery. “By using cow dung, its nutrient-rich properties are harnessed for plant growth as it decomposes,” explained the tribal women involved in the project.

The Vana Sampada workshop also transforms raw materials into a variety of eco-friendly products including plant pots, bamboo crafts, natural dye art and Dhokra art. These creations range from sustainable artwork to jewelry, bags and other accessories.