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Year of participation:2008
Region:Asia (including Pacific)
Subject:Sustainable consumption and production (recycling)|Waste management

Women farmers are working with government and NGOs to create unique fibre-sheets, paper and other products from the husks of durian fruit. These husks are currently a major source of waste in some areas – turning them into a marketable product can ease waste management difficulties, decrease methane emissions and form the basis for a viable social enterprise.
The initiative seeks to achieve the following goals:
• Develop the enterprise to become economically viable
• Develop the capability of women to manage the enterprise
• Raise awareness of women towards women’s empowerment and gender equality
• Practice fair trade principles and standards in its day to day operation
• Further research on new uses for durian husk fibre.
To ensure the long-term future of this innovative, locally-led partnership for sustainable development, additional contacts, financing opportunities and communication and marketing networks are important.
In particular, the following support is needed:
• Financial assistance
• Profile raising, marketing, product design and development.
• Networking with other groups for information
• Capacity development especially on business related topics, technical assistance.