Sat Oct 11 16:36:29 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text followed by a rewritten news article based on it:

**Summary:**

The “We Segregate” project, active in Kasturba Nagar, Chennai for nearly two years, has successfully encouraged better waste segregation habits among residents. Utilizing tools like lane composters, plastic hooks, and awareness campaigns, the project has resulted in the recycling of 584 kg of soft plastic and the composting of 9200 kg of organic waste. Now, supported by various organizations, “We Segregate” is launching a “Stewardship Contest” to expand the initiative to other neighborhoods. The contest aims to guide SWM practitioners in creating similar impact, with the winning group receiving a community composter and expert guidance. As of October 11, 2025, 13 nominations had been received.

**News Article:**

**Chennai Project “We Segregate” Expands Waste Management Success with Community Contest**

**CHENNAI, October 11, 2025** – The “We Segregate” project, which has seen significant success in improving waste segregation in Kasturba Nagar, Chennai, is now launching a “Stewardship Contest” to replicate its model in other neighborhoods. The project, a collaborative effort between Okapi Research & Advisory, Residents of Kasturbanagar Association, Chennai Resilience Centre, Greater Chennai Corporation, Urbaser Sumeet, Spreco Recycling Pvt. Ltd., and Bisleri Bottles For Change, has demonstrated tangible results in promoting sustainable waste management practices.

For nearly two years, “We Segregate” has employed a multifaceted approach, including the installation of lane composters for biodegradable waste, metal hooks for soft plastic collection, and targeted awareness campaigns. These efforts have yielded the impressive results of 584 kg of soft plastic being recycled into utilitarian products and 9200 kg of organic waste transformed into 3186 kg of compost, which is used in local gardens and farms.

Building on this success, the “We Segregate Stewardship Contest” aims to empower passionate Solid Waste Management (SWM) practitioners to create similar impacts in their own communities. The contest will provide guidance to participants, culminating in a winning group that will receive a community composter and expert support to establish responsible solid waste management systems.

“We believe that community involvement is key to sustainable waste management,” said a representative from Okapi Research & Advisory. “This contest is designed to empower individuals to take ownership of their waste and contribute to a cleaner, greener Chennai.”

As of this report, 13 nominations had been received for the contest, demonstrating a strong interest in expanding the “We Segregate” model throughout the city. The project highlights the potential for community-based initiatives to address critical environmental challenges and promote a more sustainable future.

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