Block Printed Neck Warmer

Artisan Organization: Matr Boomie

Country: India

In the community of Barmer, India hand blockprinting is the primary art form and one of the few means of livelihood. The artisan featured here is Manju Rakecha, a 48-year-old block printing artisan who is keeping the art form alive.

Blockprinting may be an age-old tradition, but it also uses up to 50,000-80,000 liters of water per day, creating a major conflict of interest for a dry desert region. In order to truly live up to their mission of having a positive impact on people and the planet, the artisans of Barmer knew they needed a sustainable solution.

In 2012, a water recycling plant was installed that allows water to be reused up to 15 times, saving over 5 million liters per year! Not only does this result in a low environmental impact, it also means more resources for the artisans and the job security that follows. Everybody wins!