A Founder’s Diary: A Sustainable Journey to London
I’ve just wrapped up three insightful days at Top Drawer in London. While I’m excited to share my thoughts on the experience and the incredible brands I encountered, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on something different—my journey to London itself.
One thing I’ve realized as I build The Belvedere Trading Company (TBTC) is that while aspects of the business may evolve over time, my commitment to sustainability in all its forms will always remain constant. Sustainability isn’t just about the products we offer; it’s a way of life, a mindset. This belief shaped the lens through which I experienced my 19-hour journey from Delhi to Abu Dhabi and finally to London. Along the way, I noticed small yet impactful sustainability initiatives that inspired me and reinforced the importance of conscious choices.
It started with my airline, Etihad Airways, which impressed me with its thoughtful approach to sustainability. As a humble economy passenger, I was grateful for the little luxuries like hand cream and an eye mask in the amenity kit. But what truly stood out was the bag itself—made entirely from recycled plastic bottles. It’s a small detail, but it represents a big step toward reducing waste. Initiatives like this remind me that even in industries with significant environmental footprints, such as aviation, meaningful progress is possible.
During my layover at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport, I was equally delighted by the efforts of brands like Camden Food Co., which stood out for their commitment to offering sustainable alternatives. They sold reusable metal straws and jute bags, reducing reliance on single-use plastics, and provided free paper bags for takeaway meals. These small but impactful changes make it easier for travellers to make sustainable choices, even on the go.
As I explored the airport further, I stopped for a coffee at Boncafé, part of the Rainforest Alliance. Knowing that their coffee is sourced from farms following sustainable practices made the experience all the more enjoyable. It’s heartening to see airports partnering with brands that prioritize sustainability, fair trade, and environmental responsibility. These partnerships not only promote eco-friendly practices but also make travellers more conscious of their purchasing decisions.
Small efforts like these may seem insignificant in isolation, but over time, they add up to create a significant impact. They also serve as a reminder of the responsibility organizations have—not just to their customers but to the planet. I hope to see more businesses adopting such practices and giving platforms to brands that embody principles like sustainability, fair trade, quality, empowerment, and cultural preservation.
While my journey was filled with inspiring examples of sustainability, one experience in London stood out for its social impact. During a stroll through Battersea, I came across a non-profit thrift shop, a place where my love for second-hand treasures and meaningful initiatives intersected. The shop, run entirely for charity, donates all its proceeds to supporting residents in hospice care. It was heartwarming to see how something as simple as repurposing clothing can be transformed into an act of kindness and sustainability.
Thrift shops like this remind me of the immense potential for such initiatives in India. Every year, millions of tonnes of old and new clothes end up in landfills in our country—clothes that could easily be repurposed. Imagine the difference we could make by establishing similar non-profits focused on repurposing textiles and supporting local communities. It’s a model that’s not only sustainable but also deeply impactful.
As I reflect on these experiences, I feel hopeful. Every small effort, whether it’s a recycled amenity kit on a flight, a sustainable coffee brand at an airport, or a charitable thrift shop in London, contributes to a larger movement. These examples inspire me to continue integrating sustainability into TBTC—not just in the products we offer but in how we approach every aspect of the business.
This journey wasn’t just about getting from Delhi to London. It was a reminder of the possibilities that lie ahead when individuals and organizations commit to making conscious, thoughtful choices. I look forward to seeing more of these efforts in action and to contributing to this collective journey toward a more sustainable future.