What is Daily Dump?
It is a service that we started in 2006 that helps convert household waste into compost. We also sell a range of composters.
What made you think of composting as a business?
It is more correct to say that the idea emerged as the creative “right” solution. As a trained designer, I was faced with questions such as what can design do to address everyday issues that a person faces.
What was the purpose behind such a venture?
The main purpose was to give individual citizens a concrete way to manage their organic waste at source. Currently, organic waste is thrown out for municipal departments to manage.
When did you realise that Daily Dump could become a business proposition?
It was designed to be a business—a micro-enterprise that could be duplicated anywhere in the country by individuals or small NGOs or even waste contractors.
How many composters do you sell every month?
Around 120-odd. Depending on the size, these composters cost anything from Rs 100 to Rs 800.
Was it difficult to get started?
When you are passionate about something, difficulties are easy to handle and overcome.
What were your investments in the business?
I had to put in around Rs 5 lakh.
How many customers do you have?
There are 1,000 customers in Bengaluru and around 30 in Chennai.
Is Daily Dump self-sustaining?
Daily Dump has now reached the self-sustaining stage. It needs capital infusion for its new products.
How do you promote this business?
I use the Web to help disseminate, inform and provide service information. Since I already had a proprietory company, I introduced Daily Dump as a brand of this company. Promotion was also through word of mouth.
Where do you see Daily Dump in future?
My dream is to see every home fitted with a composter. Look at our urban population and the prospects are mind boggling.
-As told to R Sree Ram
