At the heart of Colombo’s iconic BMICH Book Fair 2025, where thousands gathered to celebrate reading and knowledge, the ZeroPlastic Club of the National Institute of Social Development (NISD) launched a creative initiative — Eco Reads 2025. Its mission was simple yet powerful: to inspire visitors to rethink their daily plastic use and embrace sustainable alternatives.

During the event, the ZeroPlastic team noticed widespread use of single-use plastics — polythene bags, disposable food containers, and plastic cups — distributed by food stalls and vendors. Recognizing the environmental impact, the team transformed the book fair into a platform for eco-awareness and behavioral change.

Through engaging public interactions, visitors were invited to answer simple, thought-provoking environmental questions. Those who participated received eco-friendly tote bags and custom-designed bookmarks — practical tools promoting sustainability in everyday life. The tote bags served as reusable alternatives to polythene, while the bookmarks, replacing traditional printed leaflets, carried concise, impactful messages on reducing plastic waste and protecting the planet.

This thoughtful approach not only minimized additional paper waste but also encouraged long-term reflection — every bookmark becoming a small reminder of the ZeroPlastic message long after the fair ended.

Beyond giveaways, Eco Reads 2025 created meaningful dialogue. Visitors of all ages, including students, teachers, and even tourists, took part enthusiastically, learning how small choices can lead to big environmental impact.

The project exemplified how sustainability can blend seamlessly into everyday experiences — even in spaces dedicated to books and learning. With Eco Reads 2025, the ZeroPlastic NISD Club proved that awareness, creativity, and action can coexist, inspiring everyone to turn the page toward a cleaner, greener future.