The Maharashtra government could be infamous on its ban for many things, including prized food products and books on Shivaji Maharaj, but the recent ban on plastic is a welcome move. Environment Minister Ramdas Kadam has stated that the use of certain plastic products will invite a fine of Rs 25,000 on individuals, who could also face a three-year jail term. The comprehensive ban includes disposable cups and plates, cutlery and packaging. The city, as it turns out, has several options to replace plastic cutlery with. We sourced out new initiatives, and some tried and tested ones, which point out that sustainable living is not one that is reserved only for the affluent, but for everybody.

The goodness of coconut
Bindu Sanghvi, 49, an architect, who previously worked in Sri Lanka, has brought some of the island country's bounty to the Indian shores. At her boutique store, The Aaraliya House, Sanghvi retails her designs, among which are bowls and platters fashioned from the trunk of the coconut tree, and spoons made of coconut shell.