Eco‑Champion Rupa Shree Turns Sustainability Into Everyday Fun
Forget the “green” label—it’s now part of every day in Singapore, says 22‑year‑old Nanyang Technological University student Rupa Shree. She credits her grandmother for teaching her the art of turning scraps into something useful—an invisible cue that the planet loved her little inventions.
From Grandma’s Kitchen to the Streets of Singapore
“Back when I was a kid, my grandma was the ultimate recycler. She’d whip a rag from an old sari into a window scrubber, toss potato peels into a pan to make crazy little crackers, and the list goes on,” Rupa recalls. “Honestly, she didn’t even realize she was being eco‑friendly—she was just saving money and having fun.”
Breaking the Mold: Bye Bye Plastic Bags SG
- Big Idea: Rupa founded Bye Bye Plastic Bags SG (BBPB SG), a movement aimed at making green choices as simple as clicking your phone.
- Fun Tactics: The team uses easy‑to‑understand illustrations, simple challenges, and workshops to keep the public engaged.
- Core Belief: “Sustainability isn’t a chore; it’s a lifestyle you can weave into your everyday routine.”
“Why It Matters, Even When You’re Busy”
Rupa advises, “Whether you’re cramming for exams, clocking in nine-to‑five, or juggling a side hustle, you can still help make the world greener.” She compares it to learning an instrument: “It takes time, practice, and a bit of patience, but once you get the rhythm, it’s almost second nature.”
Rupa’s Everyday Green Hacks
- Set up a dedicated recycling corner at home.
- Swap disposable utensils for reusable ones whenever guests come over.
- Keep a tote bag nearby for grocery runs.
- Carry your own containers when buying food.
- Opt for thrifting over fast fashion.
With her grandmother’s legacy, Rupa is proving that living sustainably can be as easy as tossing a plastic bag into a bin—and as fun as turning a clothesline into a personal yard sale. Let’s follow her lead and pat ourselves on the back for every small, sustainable step we take.
More tips on starting your own sustainable journey
Rupa’s Green Playbook: Easy‑Peasy Tips for Everyday Eco‑Heroism
It’s not all about blew‑up workshops and fancy seminars. Rupa’s got a handful of real‑world hacks that can turn any index of lunch‑boxes and grocery bins into a sustainable powerhouse.
1⃣ Keep Your Shopping Light
- Only bring home what your family actually needs – a gentle reminder that less is more.
- Never mind that impulse grocery cart; aim for that sweet spot of “just enough.”
2⃣ Push Your Own Compost Bin
- DIY composting is a champ’s choice. Or if you’re low on space, just drop food scraps in your neighbourhood bin.
- That tiny bin could become a huge future food binge.
3⃣ Put the Pressure on Fast‑Fashion
- Drop a polite email to those brands – tell ‘em how their choices are not only trash but tirades.
- Think of every message as a pebbles’ ripple: one rippling change can flood the world.
4⃣ Slip-ups Aren’t scandals
- Did you forget your reusable bubble‑tea straw today? No sweat. A tiny slip, no shame.
- Just jot down the mistake, smile, and try to do better tomorrow.
Rupa’s Mindset
For Rupa, sustainability is a learning curve – “I’m not a perfectionist,’” she says. “I keep it realistic so I won’t cancel my own green goals.”
Vote, Chat, and Rock the Sus Ads Video Challenge
Looking for a quick 60‑second video to keep the vibes green? Hit #SusAds and let your favourite clip take the spotlight. The original soundtrack is ready, and you’re the star—so bring it on!
Something is better than nothing
Meet the 80 eco‑warriors & Why Every Little Grit Matters
- Impact‑Letter: The Sus Ads Video Challenge turns everyday actions into a collective eco‑impact.
- Community Voices: Rupa & 79 others share practical, bite‑size hacks for greener living.
- Take‑Action Web: Each clip shows how tiny shifts—like swapping a plastic bag or adjusting the thermostat—tickle the planet’s balance.
Why Rupa Rocks the Sustainability Stage
Rupa is all about making sustainable living a visible part of every day. Picture her: “When I walk, I test the air (yes, she counts CO₂ with eyes closed); when I cook, I whisper to the stove about energy efficiency.”
What’s Your Stand?
Pick the video that sings to your soul and give it a thumbs‑up in the poll below. Because even a single vote can spark a ripple.
Watch the 20 top shorted videos from the Sus Ads Video Challenge:
- Video 1 – “The Countered Plastic Bottle”
- Video 2 – “Eco‑Journey to the Local Market”
- … eventually, choose the one that makes you grin or cry… or both.
Get Involved
Vote now! Make your mark in a world where every action counts.
Reach out to [email protected] if you’re chanfined to share your eco‑story or just want to yell “Hey, I’ve got an idea.”
Let’s launch sustainable living into the stratosphere, one small act at a time.
