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Sustainable Tech – The Innovations We Use Daily

Technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, from smartphones and laptops to appliances and transportation. However, the environmental impact of our reliance on technology has become a growing concern. The good news is that many companies are now investing in sustainable tech solutions that can help reduce our carbon footprint. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the sustainable tech innovations we use daily.

Renewable Energy

One of the most significant contributions to sustainable tech is renewable energy. Solar, wind, and hydropower are rapidly becoming more accessible and cost-effective. Solar panels can now be installed on residential and commercial buildings, and some cities are implementing wind turbines for energy production. Some companies are even developing portable solar panels for outdoor activities.

Smart Home Technology

Smart home technology is another sustainable tech innovation that has become increasingly popular. Smart home devices, such as smart thermostats and smart lighting, can help to reduce energy consumption in our homes. One example is the Nest Learning Thermostat, which uses machine learning to learn your temperature preferences and automatically adjusts the temperature to save energy. The thermostat can also be controlled remotely through a smartphone app, allowing you to make adjustments from anywhere. Smart lighting systems can also be programmed to turn off when not in use or dim during low-traffic hours. Smart home technology not only helps to reduce energy usage, but it can also save homeowners money on their utility bills.

Electric Cars

Transportation is one of the largest contributors to carbon emissions, but electric cars offer a sustainable alternative. Companies like Tesla, Nissan, Tata and Chevy produce electric cars that are becoming more accessible to the general public. Electric cars have zero emissions and are much more energy-efficient than traditional gas-powered vehicles. Additionally, electric car charging stations are becoming more widely available, making it easier for electric car owners to travel long distances.

Smart Appliances

Smart appliances are another innovation in sustainable tech that is becoming more common. Energy Star-certified appliances, like refrigerators, washers, and dryers, use less energy and water than their non-certified counterparts. Smart appliances can also be programmed to run during low-traffic hours or when energy is cheapest. Some appliances even have sensors that can detect when they are not in use and automatically turn them off.

Eco-friendly gadgets

Sustainable smartphones and the use of materials in producing gadgets are not uncommon. Another essential device in our daily lives is the laptop, and there are several eco-friendly options. One such option is the Dell XPS 13, which is made from recycled ocean plastics and other recycled materials. The laptop also uses low-energy components and has an energy-efficient design, helping to reduce its carbon footprint. In addition, Dell offers a recycling program for its products, ensuring they don’t end up in landfills.

Sustainable Packaging

The packaging used for products can also have a significant impact on the environment. Sustainable packaging materials, such as biodegradable plastics and compostable materials, are becoming more common. Some companies are even using recycled materials for their packaging. In addition to reducing waste, sustainable packaging can also reduce the amount of energy needed for production and transportation.

Eco-Friendly Accessories

Even the accessories we use with our tech devices can be designed with sustainability in mind. For example, phone cases made from recycled materials or bioplastics can help to reduce waste and minimise the environmental impact of our devices. Companies across the globe offer eco-friendly phone cases and other stylish and sustainable accessories.

Sustainable tech innovations are becoming more accessible and affordable, offering a way to reduce our environmental impact. Renewable energy, smart home technology, electric cars, smart appliances, and sustainable packaging are just a few examples of sustainable tech we use daily. As consumers, we can make a difference by choosing products and technologies that prioritise sustainability.

Sustainable Cities From Around The World: Protect & Progress

The world is becoming increasingly urbanized, and if you ask a hippie soul like me, it is becoming overwhelmingly urbanized. Cities hold great value for the overall improvement of society and currently home more than half of the world’s total population with the number only expected to grow in the future. With urbanization at this pace, comes a number of challenges like the depletion of resources, congestion, increased pollution and population among many others. This highlights the importance of sustainable cities by providing a blueprint for urban development which not just prioritizes the well-being of the people but also the planet.

Sustainable cities are designed to minimize the impact of environmental exploitation while promoting economic progress and social equity. These cities prioritize the use of renewable energy resources, promote green transportation options and also invest in sustainable infrastructure. Additionally, sustainable cities also allow their residents to upgrade their lifestyles by providing access to quality housing, education, healthcare, and other services, creating a livable environment that provides well-being for all.

Thus, the importance of sustainable cities cannot be underestimated. The concept of sustainable cities holds great value in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which aim to create a just, equitable, and sustainable world by 2030. But why exactly should governments invest in creating sustainable cities? Let’s explore –

Environmental Protection: Reducing carbon emissions is one of the biggest challenges right now in the world. Sustainable cities prioritize the protection of the environment by reducing carbon emissions by adopting green infrastructure and increasing the use of renewable energy. Mitigating the negative impact of climate change and protecting natural resources is another great challenge humanity faces at this point in history. Sustainable cities address this issue while also ensuring a healthy and livable environment for the citizens.
Economic Growth: Sustainable cities promote economic growth by creating jobs in industries that emphasize sustainable technologies. Renewable energy, green infrastructure, and smart transportation are some of the industries that benefit from the growth of sustainable cities.
Social Equity: I and a big chunk of humanity stand firm on the opinion that basic needs such as water, sanitation, health, and hunger should not be deprived of anyone. Sadly, we live in a reality where nearly a billion people on the globe go to sleep hungry. Sustainable cities aim to promote social equity allowing access to basic services to people regardless of their socio-economic status.
Resource Efficiency & Resilience: It was back in 2018 when the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre published a paper sharing that the next big war could be over water. It is no secret that human civilization has abused resources for their betterment. Sustainable cities focus on reducing resource consumption by adopting a circular economy. This ensures that resources are used effectively and waste generation is reduced. Sustainable cities are also better equipped to withstand natural disasters and other disruptions as they focus on resilient infrastructure like decentralized energy systems and green spaces.

Now that the importance of sustainable cities is understood, let’s have a look at all the cities around the world which have a thriving urban landscape while putting the planet first. The following cities have been picked from the 5th edition of the Arcaid Sustainable Cities Index which ranks cities based on 51 metrics across 21 themes under three categories of sustainability: People, planet, and profit –

Oslo, Norway

Oslo has taken extensive initiatives in the sustainability arena which allowed it to go from being eighth in the Sustainable Cities Index in 2018 to first in 2022. Norway’s capital is blessed with a large presence of greenery combined with low carbon emissions achieving WHO’s target air pollution levels for nearly half a decade now. However, Oslo’s sustainability efforts are not limited to only this as it also uses a lot of renewable energy. 60% of its total energy consumption comes from hydropower which is a feat, to say the least. Oslo’s emissions have also reduced significantly since 2013 making them on track for the objective of zero carbon emissions by 2030.

Stockholm, Sweden

Sweden gains its sustainability goals by emphasizing people’s wellness. The work-life balance in Sweden is off the charts and could feel like a dream for people working long shifts. As per reports, Swedes spend more than 15 hours a day in leisure or rest. Stockholm uses flexible work schedules to offer better incentives and increase productivity.

Trains and buses in Stockholm have been using 100% renewable energy since 2017, making it a prominent sustainable city around the world. Sweden intends on becoming the world’s first fossil-fuel-free nation by 2050 under its ‘Roadmap 2050’ initiative. Sweden is reaping the benefits of having implemented sustainable goals nearly three decades back in 1995 when it introduced a carbon tax. The excise tax has been placed on carbon-intensive fuels such as oil and natural gas to drastically cut down Sweden’s dependency on fossil fuels.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo has taken major steps to create a sustainable transport system. Most of Tokyo’s transportation is made up of public transport along with non-motorised vehicles. Readers would be shocked to know that only 10% of Tokyo’s transportation is done through motorised options. This is also due to the city’s structure which features a lot of traffic restrictions and tight alleyways. The use of vehicles more compact than cars not only allows lesser CO2 emissions but also decreases congestion and noise pollution.

Japan’s capital, Tokyo is planning on reaching net-zero emissions by 2050 which is difficult to achieve as a major city. Tokyo’s sustainability goals now revolve around advancing urban development catering to nature and people’s convenience. Secondly, the city is also working on growth industries and new services through ‘Green Shift’. It also aims on achieving a sustainable growth rate even with an increased population.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is one of the most energy-efficient and sustainable cities in the world currently. It has a plan to become carbon neutral by 2025 making it the first city to achieve carbon neutrality at a rapid pace. However, in the current scenario, the city won’t be reaching this goal by 2025. However, that doesn’t take away from the fact that Copenhagen had reduced 80% of CO2 emissions by 2009 itself.

Copenhagen’s strategy for achieving its sustainability goals is through transport. The Denmark city has removed a third of all fossil-fuelled transportation since 2019. This has allowed them to eliminate more than 90,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions per year. One-fourth of the city comprises green spaces along with new constructions implementing roof gardens that are self-sufficient.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin houses over 2,500 parks and one million trees. The majority of the trees live in the Grunewald Forest and the widespread greenery coupled with numerous startups for the safekeeping of the environment have allowed Berlin to achieve its sustainability goals. Berlin plans on going climate-neutral by 2045 and has made impressive progress by meeting all its climate protection goals to date.

Sustainable development is a part of Berlin’s core. It has hundreds of cycle lanes and incentives for recycling. It is undoubtedly a city committed to change going above and beyond to meet its sustainability needs. The city also has apartment blocks which filter out grey water to feed rooftop gardens.

The importance of sustainable cities cannot be overstated. As more people move into urban areas, it is critical that we adopt sustainable practices to mitigate the negative impact on the environment and our quality of life. Sustainable cities help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve natural resources, and promote social equity. They also offer economic benefits such as improved public health, increased job opportunities, and enhanced tourism. However, achieving sustainability in cities is a complex process that requires collaboration between governments, businesses, and communities. It is important for individuals to get involved and demand change from their leaders, as well as take action in their own lives to support sustainable practices. Together, we can create a better future for ourselves and future generations by building sustainable cities that prioritize the health of our planet and its inhabitants.

The benefits and drawbacks of remote work and its impact on work-life balance

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the trend of remote work, and over the last couple of years, it has become an increasingly popular option for employees as many companies adopted remote work as a permanent option. While there are certainly benefits to remote work, there are also drawbacks to consider, especially when it comes to work-life balance. Let’s have a quick look at them.

Benefits of Remote Work

Flexibility:

Who doesn’t like to have 2 more hours to sleep and the luxury of home comfort? One of the biggest benefits of remote work is flexibility, where employees can often work on their own schedule, which can help them balance work and personal responsibilities. For example, a parent may be able to work during their child’s nap time or after they’ve gone to bed.

Increased productivity:

Remote workers are often more productive than those who work in traditional office settings due to a variety of factors, such as fewer distractions, interruptions and the ability to work in a more comfortable environment. The employees who work from home also reported fewer sick days and less time off, which can help companies increase their overall productivity.

Cost savings:

When you work remotely, you save a lot of money, along with a few hours. Without the need to commute to the office, employees can save money on transportation costs. Remote workers also save money on meals, as they can prepare their meals at home instead of buying food from restaurants or cafes. In the case of employers, remote work can lead to cost savings on office space, utilities, and other expenses.

Improved work-life balance:

Remote work enables employees to better manage their personal and professional lives. Without the need to commute, employees can save time and energy, which they can use to engage in other activities that are important to them, such as spending time with family and friends, exercising, or pursuing hobbies.

Improved employee retention

Remote work can also lead to improved employee retention. According to several studies, remote workers are 13% more likely to stay in their current job for the next five years compared to office-based workers. Remote work provides employees with the flexibility and autonomy they need to achieve their personal and professional goals, which can lead to higher job satisfaction and employee retention.

Drawbacks of Remote Work

Remote employee working at home office. Man sits at computer desk at sea resort window view.

Lack of Face-to-Face Interaction

The biggest drawback of remote work is the lack of face-to-face interaction. When employees work remotely, they don’t have the opportunity to interact with their colleagues in person, which can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. It can negatively impact mental health and productivity, as employees may feel disconnected from their team and the company as a whole.

Difficulty with Collaboration and Communication

Remote work can also make collaboration and communication more difficult. When employees work in the same physical space, they can easily communicate with each other and collaborate on projects in real-time. However, while working remotely, communication can be delayed, and collaboration can be more challenging, which can lead to miscommunication and delays in project completion.

Potential for Distractions

When in the office, employees have HRs on their heads to be productive, but in the case of working from home, employees lead to distractions that can negatively impact productivity. Employees may be tempted to do household chores, take care of children, or spend time on social media, which can distract them from their work, leading to missed deadlines and lower-quality work.

Lack of Boundaries Between Work and Home Life

Remote work can also blur the boundaries between work and home life. When employees work from home, it can be challenging to separate their work and personal life, which can lead to burnout and decreased job satisfaction. Additionally, without clear boundaries, employees may feel like they are working all the time, leading to increased stress and anxiety.

Potential for Technology Issues

Finally, remote work can also lead to technical issues that can negatively impact productivity. When employees work remotely, they rely heavily on technology to stay connected with their team and complete their work. However, technical issues such as poor internet connection, software glitches, or hardware malfunctions can cause significant delays and frustration.

Impact on Work-Life Balance

Remote work can have both positive and negative effects on work-life balance. On the one hand, it can provide more flexibility and control over work schedules, leading to less stress and burnout. At the same time, it can also lead to blurred boundaries between work and personal life, leading to burnout and a negative impact on mental health. Employees need to set clear boundaries between work and personal life to achieve a healthy work-life balance while working remotely.

The list includes creating a designated workspace, setting specific work hours, and taking regular breaks throughout the day. It’s also important for employers to support their remote workers by providing resources and tools to help them manage their workload and maintain their mental health.

Overall, remote work has its benefits and drawbacks, and its impact on work-life balance can vary depending on the individual. While it can provide flexibility and cost savings, it can also lead to isolation and blurred boundaries between work and personal life.

The art of sustainable travel: Tips for planning and enjoying your next vacation responsibly

Travelling is a fantastic way to explore new places, meet new people, and broaden your horizons. However, it’s important to consider the impact that travel can have on the environment and local communities. As travellers, we have a responsibility to make sustainable choices that reduce our environmental footprint and support the local economy. Let’s have a look at the top-notch tips for planning and enjoying your next vacation responsibly.

Sustainable Accommodation

When you choose sustainable accommodation, you bring life to the environment. So, without a second thought, look for hotels, lodges, and resorts with sustainability certifications or initiatives in place, such as reducing water and energy usage, using eco-friendly cleaning products, and implementing recycling programs. You can also consider staying in eco-friendly accommodations like ecolodges or sustainable treehouses, which offer a unique and environmentally-friendly travel experience.

Public Transportation

Sounds uncomfortable, right? However, public transportation such as trains, buses, and bicycles to explore your destination is environmentally friendly and can also help you experience the local culture. What about flights? Well, choose airlines that prioritise sustainability and carbon counterbalance.

Pack light and bring reusable items

Packing light can reduce your carbon footprint by making your luggage lighter and reducing fuel consumption. Additionally, bringing reusable items like water bottles, shopping bags, and food containers can help reduce waste and the use of single-use plastics. You can also pack a reusable straw and utensils to avoid using disposable ones while on the go.

Eat and shop local

Supporting local businesses is a great way to give back to the communities you visit. Eating at local restaurants and buying souvenirs from local shops can help support the local economy and reduce the environmental impact of transportation and packaging. Additionally, try to eat locally-sourced food and drinks, which can reduce the carbon footprint of your meals.

Choose sustainable activities

When planning your itinerary, consider choosing sustainable activities with minimal environmental impact and supporting the local economy. You can go on a guided tour with a local guide or visit a sustainable farm or wildlife sanctuary. Also, try to participate in activities that promote environmental education and conservation, such as beach cleanups or wildlife rehabilitation programs.

Offset your carbon footprint

Offsetting your carbon footprint can help reduce the impact of your travel on the environment. Many airlines and travel companies offer carbon offset programs, which allow you to pay a fee to offset the carbon emissions generated by your travel. The fees are typically used to support renewable energy projects or reforestation initiatives.

Sustainable Packaging – Trends, Benefits, and Impact

Caution: Don’t judge a packaging by the materials it is made up of. You might have noticed the new-age packaging arrives with a foul smell, but we have to tolerate it as it is the only way to continue to support healthy globalisation and maintain the well-being and integrity of our planet.

In recent years, sustainable packaging has become a critical aspect of today’s world, and this has led to a growing interest in sustainable packaging. Sustainable packaging refers to the use of packaging materials and methods that are eco-friendly, recyclable, and biodegradable.

Renewable materials are those that can be replenished naturally and quickly, such as bamboo, paper, and cornstarch. These materials are biodegradable and can be composted, which reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. Additionally, renewable materials are less energy-intensive to produce, which means they have a smaller carbon footprint.

Sustainable packaging seeks to minimise the environmental impact of packaging materials by reducing waste, conserving resources, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The need to reduce environmental degradation and protect the planet has never been greater. Let’s look at the trends, benefits, and impacts of sustainable packaging.

Trends in Sustainable Packaging

Biodegradable Materials:

Biodegradable materials such as compostable plastics, biodegradable plastics, and plant-based materials are increasingly used in sustainable packaging. These materials include plant-based plastics, such as polylactic acid (PLA) and cellulose, and biodegradable films made from corn starch or potato starch, leaving no harmful residue behind. Biodegradable packaging is already widely used in the food industry, and its popularity is expected to grow in the coming times.

Recyclable Materials:

Another trend in sustainable packaging is the focus on recycling. Nowadays, many companies use recycled materials to make their packaging, and many design their packaging to be easily recyclable. The packaging materials can be recycled and reused, reducing the amount of waste going into landfills. In addition, some companies are incorporating recyclable materials into their packaging, such as using recycled cardboard for boxes or glass for jars.

Minimalist Design:

Minimalist design is a trend that focuses on reducing the amount of packaging used by keeping it as simple and minimal as possible without sacrificing functionality or aesthetics. Minimalist packaging uses fewer materials, which helps in reducing waste and lowers the environmental impact of production. The design approach in minimalist packaging considers the product’s size, shape, and weight and aims to reduce the amount of packaging needed while still protecting the product.

Multi-Use Packaging:

Reusable packaging is a trend that is gaining popularity in the food and beverage industry. The type focuses on designing packaging that can be used for multiple purposes, which reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. Reusable packaging can take many forms, from refillable water bottles to reusable food containers. Some companies are even experimenting with reusable packaging for shampoo and laundry detergent items.

Innovative packaging materials:

Innovation is the key to survival, and when it comes to packaging, scientists and researchers are working on developing new materials that are more sustainable than traditional packaging materials. For example, some companies are exploring the use of seaweed-based materials for food packaging, while others are looking at using mushroom-based materials for packaging.

Benefits of Sustainable Packaging

Reduced Waste: Sustainable packaging helps to reduce waste by using materials that are biodegradable, recyclable, or compostable.
Lower Carbon Footprint: Sustainable packaging helps to lower the carbon footprint by reducing the amount of energy required to manufacture and transport packaging materials.
Increased Brand Image: Sustainable packaging helps companies to create a positive brand image by showing their commitment to environmental protection.
Cost Savings: Sustainable packaging can help companies save money in the long run by reducing the amount of packaging needed and lowering transportation costs.

Impact of Sustainable Packaging

Reduced Environmental Impact: Sustainable packaging helps to reduce the environmental impact by reducing the amount of waste that goes into landfills and the amount of energy required to manufacture and transport packaging materials.
Increased Consumer Awareness: Sustainable packaging has helped to raise consumer awareness of environmental issues and encourages them to make more sustainable choices.
Government Regulation: Governments around the world are taking steps to regulate packaging waste, and sustainable packaging is a critical part of this effort.
Market Growth: Sustainable packaging has opened up new market opportunities for companies that are committed to sustainability.

Super Mario Bros film shatters expectations with $377+ million opening weekend

It looks like everyone and their parents went to watch the latest Super Marios Bros. Movie over the weekend as the film has managed to set the cash registers on fire! The first instalment in what can only be called the next big animated franchise, the Mario Brothers scored a whopping $377 million globally in its 5-day opening weekend. With this amazing feat, the Super Mario Bros. Movie has become the highest-opening animated film in history. The box office record is a clear statement that family audiences do not care about reviews as the film opened to average to decent reports from the critics.

Super Mario Bros break records

The animated family offering by Universal and Illumination struck the right chords with the audience over the weekend. The film raked in about $204.6 million in the first five-day weekend in its domestic market of the USA. Whereas, an estimated international earning of $173 million was also recorded taking the cumulative to $377 million global total. Mario did not just break records for an animated film but also videogame adaptation films passing Warcraft’s $210 million and Frozen 2’s $358 million.

Surprisingly, the film also surpassed industry expectations by a big margin. Industry predictions set the film to make $225 million over its opening weekend which was easily surpassed by the film. Mario’s success does come as a surprise as I watched it during Thursday early previews with a packed theatre in Mumbai consisting of people from all age groups be it kids or senior citizens. Similar to the Minions trend back in 2022, Mario also witnessed people dressing up as the characters from the series to watch the film in theatres, making it a celebration.

On the other hand, Ben Affleck’s ‘Air’ also made its debut in the USA grossing $20 million in its opening weekend. Air brought a much-needed counter-programming to the box office storm of Mario Bros. catering only to adult audiences with its R-rating. Whereas, John Wick Chapter 4 also held its own in its third weekend at the box office raking in $14.5 million. It will be interesting to see if the Super Mario Bros. Movie manages to hit the $1 billion or $2 billion mark at the box office during its final run.

Cloud of Smoke – The Vaping Generation

Blueberry, strawberry, milk coffee, or Kiwi? No, I am not asking you about your favourite ice cream flavour but instead about your preferred flavours of vape! We were celebrating the 25th birthday of a close friend on April’s first weekend when I was taken aback by the clouds of smoke being casually blown away by my friends. While some were discussing the different flavours available in the market, others were simply passing around their electric smoke devices amongst each other to try every available flavour out.

This made me realise that gone are the days when your ‘flavour’ of choice with smoke was restricted to mint or clove cigarettes. Now, you can smoke Coca-Cola! (well, at least something that tastes mildly similar to it) The recent resurgence of vapes in the country and its popularity amongst youngsters is something that needs to be looked into as a major concern. We all know that the Union Cabinet banned the use of production, sale, distribution and advertising of vapes back in 2019 but they’ve now become as common as cigarettes and can be found in general stores at varying prices and of course, flavours. The sweet and icy smoke brings a solid kick of nicotine to your system relaxing you momentarily before you can pick up the vape again and hit it with all your might. The loop goes on till your vape either dies or runs out of charging triggering you to run around the market finding a new one or wait anxiously till your device is fully charged to puff up again.

The dependency on vapes and similar e-cigarettes amongst young adults and teenagers is evident. While India entirely banned e-cigarettes in 2019, a WHO survey has proved that 23% of smokers in the country are using them. This begs us to ask the question of whether vaping is a passing trend or a permanent addiction.

The area of concern deepens when you realize that vape devices have become the hottest new accessory amongst teenagers. Young kids between 11-15 can be seen puffing on fruity flavours while walking on the streets which is surely a troubling sight. A regular prop at social gatherings and even some school bathrooms, vapes have made their way into the everyday life of young teenagers. Smoking has always been an act of rebellion or a way to look cool for teenagers, I lit up my first cigarette at the age of 13 thinking it was the coolest thing to do. Thus, it’s no surprise that young teenagers are now attracted to e-smoking devices that come with deliberately flashy designs and flavours like bubble gum, cola, strawberry, and more.

Another grave concern surrounding the use of vapes among young people is the wrong perception that vaping is not harmful. However, there have been various studies that have proven that chemicals used in vape flavouring can cause lung injuries and the highly addictive nicotine can stunt brain development. Whereas, liquid vaporizing solutions also contain toxic chemicals and metals that have proven to have adverse health effects including cancers, diseases of the heart, and more. Social media and peer pressure are also driving forces for young kids to get lured into picking up the vape and puffing their days away.

Additionally, vapes used to be difficult to manage back in the day. Vapes came with users having to manually fill in the liquid flavouring and charging the device before they could start puffing on it and refill the liquid from time to time. Today’s vapes have become much more convenient with single-use and chargeable e-smoking devices which can be used easily. As of now, there are over 500 e-cigarette brands offering over 7000 flavours in the country as per government records. While vapes are often touted as the replacement for tobacco, ironically tobacco flavoured vapes are also available in the market now.

Ultimately, it cannot be denied that the vaping generation is taking over. Be it movie theatres, restaurants, or public places, vaping is everywhere. If no strict action is taken against the rampant influx of illegal vapes in the country then it can soon become a matter of grave concern as the long-term effects of smoking e-cigarettes are not yet studied. Protecting kids from alcohol, drugs, and cigarettes was always a worry for parents. Now, parents, teachers, and the government stand against the hip appeal of smoking vapes.

Living Fearless – Women Safety Apps in India

We’re living in the digital era which means the human experience is now deeply connected with the digital world. Be it food or clothes, all things required are now just a few clicks away making our lives easier. On the other hand, there are a plethora of applications designed to help people from every walk of life be it kindergarten rhymes or senior citizen support. The digital landscape has undoubtedly changed how people lived their lives but a few grave concerns remain the same. One such concern is that of women’s safety.

If you’re an Indian reader then I do not need to reiterate the horrors women go through in our country. Robbery, domestic violence, assaults and rapes are over the news in India at a disturbing rate which begs us to ask the question of whether women are truly safe in the country. In our women’s special edition, we wanted to get our readers acquainted with these women’s safety applications in case of an unfortunate event. Check them out now

112 India

Perhaps the most important application when it comes to women’s safety in the country is the 112 India app. It is an all-in-one women’s safety app that can be used to issue SOS alerts with only one single tap in any situation. The application is available on both Android and iOS devices in 23 states and Union Territories across India. Users need to simply register themselves using their phone number and add the necessary information. In addition, users may also be asked to enter an emergency contact number to notify that person in case of an emergency. The app’s functionality is pretty straightforward too as it automatically sends the user’s details like name, age, emergency contact, and location to nearby volunteers and generates an automated call to 112 which is the state emergency control room.

My Safetipin: Complete Safety

In today’s age, women and men function on an equal footing. This means, more and more women are now stepping out of the house to work and provide for their families. However, the unfair threat of safety looms over women which has been effectively addressed by the My Safetipin application. This app’s goal is to make cities safer by generating safety scores for places around the country by collecting massive data. The application sports features like GPS tracking, emergency contact numbers, direction to safe locations around cities, pins and alerts for unsafe areas and also provides the safest route options for women.

Sheroes

Sadly, social media is also not an entirely safe place for women. Receiving threats and unsolicited pictures is a common occurrence women face around the world. This is where Sheroes comes into the picture, it is a leading social media platform exclusively for women. At Sheroes, women can share their passions through posts and videos in a safe digital environment. Sheroes is not just limited to being a social media platform for women but also a helpline where women can chat anonymously and share their feelings. Community legal support and Mahila Kanoon support are also available at Sheroes.

bSafe

bSafe is a comprehensive safety app for women that boasts a wide range of features. It’s equipped with the bSafe alarm which broadcasts the exact location and an audio-video from the location for ease with your emergency contact. It also features the ‘Follow Me’ feature which allows users to virtually track GPS until their loved ones have arrived at the location. An interesting feature in the application is the fake call feature which helps people escape an unwanted situation by pretending they’re on a call with someone.

Chilla

Chilla is a unique application that serves the singular purpose of triggering an alert message. Women can be stuck in situations where they are unable to press the emergency button on their phone during an attack, in such cases, they can shout loudly and activate the SOS alert on their device.

Girl Power – Best Women-Centric Films

It won’t be unfair to say that the Indian cinema industry is dominated by male-centric films. We have heroes who are larger than life fighting villains in slow motion all while women characters get sidelined. It was the era of the ‘Angry Young Man’ which propagated the narrative of male dominant storytelling. Indian classics like Sholay or Agneepath feature a similar male-dominant narrative but what goes unnoticed are the strong female characters present in them. Unfortunately, women in the majority have been underrepresented in most films of the past era. The ‘Masala’ films often tend to portray women as eye candies who don’t really bring much to the story narrative-wise.

For the relief of the audience, parallel cinema exists! However, it will be an understatement to say that women-centric films are only limited to parallel cinema as many examples in the recent past have made them mainstream. The essence of women actors has now changed in India with men taking a backseat in some of the best films released in India. In our Exhibit women’s special edition, we wanted to have a look at all women-centric films from India that deserve your attention –

Raazi

Alia Bhatt has cemented herself as a bankable star on her own with solo films like Raazi and Gangubai Kathiawadi. While the latter also deserves a mention in the list, Raazi stands out as it’s not just a women-centric film but also a patriotic one. Missions, spies, and deceit are some story points that keep the audience hooked to the screen. Raazi is a complete package as this spy thriller excels in every aspect. Alia Bhatt moves the audience with her heartbreaking performance towards the end of the film.

English Vinglish

This Sridevi film portrays how women are treated in a patriarchal Indian household. English Vinglish revolves around Shashi Godbole, a middle-class housewife who struggles to speak fluent English. Her confidence is damaged trying to get a hold of the English language and decides to join an English-speaking class. Sridevi plays Shashi as a persistent and hard-working woman who does not let challenges overthrow her goals. The film ultimately depicts that even if a woman has dedicated her life to taking care of her family, she can go out in the world and find her own voice.

Margarita With A Straw

Margarita With A Straw is one of the few Indian films that depict the story of a differently-abled person with respect and sensibility. It stars Kalki Koechlin in the lead role as a teenager with cerebral palsy who shifts to America for higher studies. Kalki plays Laila who is an outgoing girl regardless of her disability. The film ultimately speaks about same-sex relationships which have not been done in India extensively.

Pink

The film brought about a feminist wave across the country and let the nation know that when a girl says ‘No’ it means ‘No’. The gripping thriller revolves around the life of three women fighting a legal battle against men from an influential family and ultimately winning it. Pink not just sheds a thorough light on consent in sexual relationships but also talks about victim blaming. Pink highlights and underlines that a woman’s clothing or lifestyle are not indicative of the fact that ‘She’s asking for it’.

Thappad

Taapsee Pannu has been at the forefront of women-centric films in the country with films like Pink and Thappad. The basic storyline of the film revolves around a slap and how a husband does not have a right to slap or physically hurt his wife. Films in India have not addressed the issue of domestic violence by large and it was only with Alia Bhatt’s Darlings is where viewers got to see the issue acknowledged. However, Thappad remains the first film in the modern Hindi film industry to shed a light on this issue.

Honorary Mentions –

Neerja

Dangal

No One Killed Jessica

Queen

Damini

Lipstick Under My Burkha

Chak De! India

Mary Kom

Breaking Barriers – Celebrating History Making Women

Women breaking records across various fields has been a growing trend in recent years, inspiring millions of young girls and women around the world to dream big and aim for the stars. From the world of sports to politics, entertainment to technology, women are breaking barriers and challenging gender norms, proving that there is no limit to what they can achieve.

In sports, women have broken countless records and shattered longstanding barriers. From Serena Williams’ record-breaking 23 Grand Slam titles to Simone Biles’ domination of the gymnastics world with a jaw-dropping 30 Olympic and World Championship medals, female athletes continue to rewrite the history books and redefine what it means to be a champion.

Outside of sports, women are also making waves and breaking records in other areas. Kamala Harris, for example, made history in 2021 when she became the first female vice president of the United States. In the entertainment industry, actresses like Viola Davis and Regina King are paving the way for diversity and inclusion, breaking barriers and smashing records with their outstanding performances. Women in technology are also making strides, with leaders like Susan Wojcicki and Sheryl Sandberg blazing trails and inspiring the next generation of female tech pioneers. They say it is a man’s world, but it will be an understatement to say that this man’s world has been built upon the shoulders of pioneering women. In our women’s special edition, we wished to acknowledge and celebrate all the women who have broken the barriers of patriarchal dominance and created a record for themselves. Check them out below –

Malala Yousafzai

Malala Yousafzai made history back in 2014 when she became the youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize winner. The Pakistani female education activist achieved this feat at just the age of 17 years. Malala endured a lot when she was left seriously injured after being attacked in Pakistan for her campaign work by an extremist terrorist group. Since then, Yousafzai has emerged to become a prominent figure for women’s education around the world.

Greta Thunberg

Greta is often seen in the news getting carried away by government officials usually at a protest. The Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg set a record for being the youngest Time ‘Person Of The Year’ at the age of just 16 years and 354 days. Thunberg gained prominence in August 2018 when she protested against her own government in Sweden to step up and deliver on its environmental commitments. In 2022, Greta Thunberg made headlines for trolling the infamous social media influencer Andrew Tate which led to Twitter having a field day.

Zara Rutherford

All of us dream to travel around the world. Be it the hustle of New York or the serenity of Switzerland, we want to experience it all. But would you be willing to travel across the world solo in a microlight aircraft? Sounds crazy but Zara Rutherford achieved this feat just at the young age of 19! Zara is an aviator who at the age of 19 became the youngest female pilot to fly solo around the world and the first person ever to complete a circumnavigation in a microlight aircraft. She completed her journey in five months. Interestingly, Zara’s brother at the age of 16 has broken the same record becoming the youngest person to fly around the world.

Christina Koch

“I’d love to go to space” is something I find myself saying at least once a week. The realisation that we’re just specks of dust when it comes to the universe is a humbling experience and witnessing outer space would be a privilege. However, it’s not for the faint of heart and Christina Koch is the exact opposite of it. US astronaut Christina Koch broke the women’s record for the longest time in space. As a part of a long-duration mission, Christina Koch spent 328 days in space making it the longest single spaceflight by a woman. The record was previously held by Peggy Whitson who spent a total of 288 days in space.

Junko Tabei

Humanity has been climbing mountains both physically and philosophically for the longest time. However, climbing Mount Everest is known to be one of the most daunting challenges for climbers around the world. In 1975, Junk Tabei became the first woman in the world to climb Mount Everest. Besides climbing Everest, Junko Tabei also became the first woman to climb the ‘Seven Summits’ – the highest mountain in each continent and didn’t stop there as she also tackled 70 other mountains around the world.

Mary Kom

I am sure we have all seen the Mary Kom biopic featuring Priyanka Chopra in the titular role. While the film showcases Kom’s journey in an effective manner, it surely misses out on all the laurels this boxer has won for our country. Mary Kom has a number of records under her kitty which inspire a lot of young women to wear boxing gloves and get into the ring. Mary Kom is the only woman to win World Amateur Boxing Championship six times. She is dubbed as ‘Magnificient Mary’ by people which is not an understatement as she is the only female boxer to have won a medal in each of the first seven World Championships. Mary is also the first woman from India to win a medal in boxing at the Olympics.

Arunima Sinha

Arunima Sinha is inspiration personified. Her story is that of resilience and conquering pain in the face of challenges. It was back in 2011 when 24-year-old Arunima Sinha who was a national-level volleyball player at the time was thrown off a moving train by refusing to hand over the gold chain she was wearing. She ended up losing her left leg in this altercation when a train went over it. But that did not stop her as she made it her life’s goal to climb Mount Everest with a prosthetic leg. She achieved this feat in 2013 becoming the first ever Indian female amputee to climb Everest. She was awarded the Padma Shri in 2015.

Kalpana Chawla

If you were in school around 2002-03 like me then you know how prominent a figure Kalpana Chawla is. Kalpana was an Indian-born American astronaut and aerospace engineer who was the first woman of Indian origin to go to space. Kalpana was a proud immigrant and a woman of colour who was the mission specialist on the Shuttle Columbia in 2003. Sadly, the Shuttle Columbia exploded during re-entry into the earth’s atmosphere killing her and six other crew members.

Gitanjali Rao

Getting titled TIME’s ‘Person Of The Year’ is a huge feat in itself. Imagine the magazine making a whole new category just to award you. The 15-year-old Indian-American scientist Gitanjali Rao was the first ever TIME ‘Kid Of The Year’ in 2020 for her scientific solutions. Gitanjali developed a lead detection tool when she was only 10 years old. Her understanding of the water crisis in Flint, Michigan led to her making a lead detection tool which could help the residents of the area.

Dr Jill Biden

It is easy for the First Lady of the US to take a backseat and enjoy the comfort of having their husband run the country. But Dr Jill Biden is not any other First Lady as she holds a doctorate in education leadership. During her two terms as the Second Lady, Jill continued to teach writing full-time at the Northern Virginia Community College and promised that she would continue to do even if her husband becomes the president. Jill Biden is still a committed teacher during Joe Biden’s presidential run making her the first First Lady to hold a paying job outside the White House.