Goonj envisions to grow as an idea across regions, economies and countries using urban discard as a tool to alleviate poverty and enhance the dignity of the poor in the world. Address basic but neglected issues of the poor by involving them in evolving their own solutions with dignity and urban material as reward.
Values & Guiding Principles
We aim to recognize and value the potential of local resource and traditional wisdom of people.
Our focus is concentrated on the receiver’s dignity instead of the donor’s pride.
We promote circular economy by ensuring maximum use of each material.
We value collaborative efforts with partner organizations to increase effectiveness and scale.
Goonj views every entity as equal stakeholder in the process of development rather than observing hierarchical relationships.
In the race of development we all are too focused on machines i.e. the big and known issues, ignoring the needles- the most important basic needs.
Since 1999, Goonj has built a network of communities from urban to village India, channelizing material as a tool to address crucial gaps in rural infrastructure, water, environment, livelihood, education, health, disaster relief and rehabilitation. Its engagement with both the urban and rural population has galvanized a mass civic participation in addressing basic but neglected issues. Goonj’s model of development implemented through its various Initiatives proposes a more inclusive alternative economy where everyone is an equal stakeholder in the process.
