We sit down and have a conversation with our new intern, Kashish Kakran, who has joined the Ree team to gain real-world experience of how we are trying to improve waste in the UAE.
How old were you when you became aware of sustainability and was there one event in
particular that inspired you to want to get into sustainability?
I was introduced to recycling at an early stage by my parents. They have always
incorporated it in us since the beginning. The event that truly inspired me was a school
project on the impact of plastic waste on marine life. Seeing the devastating effects of
pollution on animals and ecosystems made me realize the importance of sustainability. It
motivated me to start making changes in my own life and to educate others about the
significance of reducing waste and conserving resources.
There is an increase in environmental anxiety in young children at school nowadays due
to the end of the world style messaging. How do you think younger children should be
taught about sustainability in schools?
I believe younger children should be taught about sustainability in a positive and
empowering way. Instead of always focusing on the doom and gloom, educators should
highlight the positive outcomes and ways through which we can make a difference.
Interactive activities, hands-on projects, and stories of environmental heroes can inspire
and motivate children. It's important to instil a sense of hope and agency, showing them
that even small actions can lead to big changes.
What specific skills or experiences do you hope to gain from this internship, and how do
you plan to apply them in your future career?
From this internship, I hope to gain a comprehensive understanding of both the business
and technical aspects of the recycling industry. On the business side, I aim to learn
about the operational challenges and strategies involved in managing a recycling
company. On the technical side, I am particularly interested in deepening my knowledge
of how technology can enhance recycling processes. This includes learning about data
analytics, automation, and smart systems that can improve efficiency and effectiveness
in waste management. By integrating these skills and experiences, I plan to apply them
in my future career by pursuing roles that bridge technology and sustainability.
What would be your ideal job in the future?
My ideal job in the future would be combining my passion for sustainability with
technology. To go more in detail, becoming more efficient in artificial intelligence and
robotics would be something I would focus more on. By leveraging the power of AI, I
hope to contribute to innovative solutions that address environmental challenges, reduce
waste, and promote sustainable practices. This role would allow me to combine my
passion for technology with my commitment to sustainability, driving positive change and
making a tangible impact on the world.
If there is one thing you think everyone should do, with regards to sustainability, what
should it be?
I think something as simple as reducing your waste can change a lot for the better. By
being mindful of the products we consume and making an effort to minimize waste, we
can significantly reduce our environmental footprint. Simple actions like using reusable
bags, bottles, and containers, composting organic waste, and choosing products with
minimal packaging can make a huge difference. Reducing waste not only conserves
resources but also decreases the amount of trash that ends up in landfills and oceans,
leading to a healthier planet for future generations.
Do you have a favourite environmental cause or issue you're particularly passionate
about?
I'm particularly passionate about reducing ocean plastic pollution. The sight of plastic
waste in our oceans and the harm it causes to marine life is heart breaking. I believe that
addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach, including better waste
management practices, increased recycling efforts, and global cooperation to reduce
plastic production and consumption.
Are there any sustainability influencers or thought leaders you follow on social media?
Yes, I follow several sustainability influencers and thought leaders on social media like
Greta Thunberg, Lauren Singer, who promote a zero waste lifestyle. I also follow various
environmental NGOs that provide valuable insights and updates on sustainability issues.
Additionally, REE founder Jaskaran has been very influential for me. He taught me a lot
about recycling and made me aware of the harsh realities of the recycling process.
According to me, Jaskaran was the one who truly opened my eyes to the importance of
sustainable practices and the impact we can have through better recycling efforts.
What is your biggest frustration regarding sustainability, whether its certain actions or
lack of public knowledge in a certain cause?
My biggest frustration is the lack of awareness and action regarding electronic waste.
Many people don't realize how harmful e-waste can be to the environment and human
health. There's a significant need for better education on how to properly dispose of and
recycle electronic devices. Additionally, more accessible recycling programs and policies
are needed to address this growing issue
How do you encourage friends and family to adopt more sustainable habits?
I encourage friends and family to adopt more sustainable habits by leading by example
and sharing practical tips. I often talk about the small changes I've made, like reducing
plastic use, conserving water, and recycling diligently. Signing up for group events like
beach clean ups and DIY projects is one way to go about it.
Where in the world do you believe the biggest innovations in sustainability are being
made and why?
I believe some of the biggest innovations in sustainability are being made in Silicon
Valley, USA, Netherlands, Sweden and Denmark. These countries have implemented
advanced recycling systems, invested heavily in renewable energy, and have
progressive environmental policies. Their commitment to sustainability and innovative
approaches serve as a model for the rest of the world. Additionally, places like Singapore
and Germany are also making significant strides in urban sustainability and green
technologies.
Please go support Kashish on her sustainability career and future by following her:
Comments