Reinforcing Goa’s emergence as a national leader in sustainable innovation, the Wealth Out Of Waste (WOOW) Plant in Chicalim earned high praise from Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Rural Development, Dr. Pemmasani Chandrasekhar, during his visit on June 7, 2025. Operated by YIMBY, the facility was presented as a model for integrated, decentralised waste management — combining scientific methodology with real-world impact.
Accompanied by Hon’ble Minister for Transport, Shri Mauvin Godinho, the Union Minister toured the plant and reviewed its full-cycle operations — from doorstep waste collection and scientific segregation to the transformation of organic and non-organic waste into reusable resources such as biogas, electricity, and recycled materials.
Dr. Chandrasekhar acknowledged the uniqueness of the plant, stating, “ The Chief Minister had mentioned that this is one of a kind plant and encouraged me to visit. I have seen several waste management projects across the country, but this is the first time I witnessed such a comprehensive and integrated model. The way different types of waste are handled scientifically and converted into multiple outputs is impressive.” He further expressed interest in adopting similar models in his home state of Andhra Pradesh.
Shri Mauvin Godinho added that the Union Minister took a deep interest in the technical and operational aspects of the project and appreciated the efficiency of the plant. “He was extremely impressed with how the waste is being managed here in a decentralised and systematic way,” he said.
At the core of this successful model is YIMBY’s founder and owner, Mr. Gaurav Pokle, whose vision has helped demonstrate how local solutions can effectively address national and global environmental challenges.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Gaurav Pokle stated, “At YIMBY, we believe waste is not a problem, but an opportunity to innovate, generate value, and to build more resilient communities. The WOOW Plant is a living example of how decentralised systems, rooted in science and supported by local governance, can truly make an impact. We’re honoured by the recognition from the Hon’ble Union Minister and remain committed to replicating this model across India.”
Earlier this week, the model received further recognition when the Chicalim Panchayat was awarded First Place in the Best Environmental Practices Competition for Local Bodies under the UNEP theme ‘Ending Plastic Pollution Globally,’ presented by the Goa State Pollution Control Board on World Environment Day 2025.
With growing national interest and proven impact, YIMBY remains committed to expand its innovative waste management models, demonstrating science, sustainability, and local governance work together, lasting environmental transformation is not only possible, but scalable.