Peshawar woman transforms waste into useful products to protect environment

Nadia Qureshi, a social worker from Peshawar, is transforming used items and waste into useful products, combating climate change and protecting the environment.

By transforming discarded items, she not only helps reduce waste but also empowers women.

"I used to go to different places to collect used items, but now women themselves send such items to my house, which keeps the environment clean and is also a source of livelihood for me," Nadia shared in an interview with Independent Urdu.

Her journey began two years ago, collecting plastic bottles, straws, ice cream boxes, and other waste to create decorations.

The artist's mission is to tackle Pakistan's climate change issues. She said: "Waste includes organic or non-organic items, such as plastics, which remain in the ground for years, affecting human health, aquatic life, and animals."

From used bottles, cans, paper, and other items, Nadia crafts vases, decorative bottles, gift packs, and envelopes. 

Her work not only reduces pollution but also generates income.

"On one hand, I contribute to reducing environmental pollution; on the other, it's a good source of income," she noted.

Nadia extends her impact by training women in this skill. "I now also train women in this work to empower them," she said. 

Through Facebook, Instagram, phone, and in-person bookings, Nadia's products reach a wider audience.

However, Nadia stresses that government efforts to address environmental pollution remain inadequate.

"Sufficient measures are not being taken at the government level to reduce environmental pollution; the government should pay special attention to it," she urged.