"Eco-Friendly Handicrafts from Fish Scales: A Sustainable Approach to Waste Management and Rural Livelihoods"

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Fish scales contain collagen fibers and when thrown away can cause health problems to aquatic organisms and the environment. Reusing fish scales not only reduces solid waste but is also an additional source of income for rural areas, if we engage in creating something with fish waste-based products it could serve as extra income and, at the same time save the ecosystem. In this study the fish scales collected from the fish market of Pathardi, Dist. Ahilyanagar (Ahmednagar), Maharashtra for preparing various fish scales handicrafts like earrings, bracelets, chandeliers, hairpins, and necklaces. It is a creative and interesting work where people can earn money and showcase their artistic skills to protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of ecosystems to conserve biodiversity and use its components sustainably.

Fish scales, often discarded as waste, are rich in collagen fibers and can pose environmental risks if not managed properly. This study explores a sustainable and economically beneficial approach to reusing fish scales by converting them into artistic handicrafts. Fish scales were collected from the local fish market in Pathardi, Dist. Ahilyanagar (Ahmednagar), Maharashtra, and used to create various items such as earrings, bracelets, chandeliers, hairpins, and necklaces. This initiative not only contributes to waste reduction and environmental protection but also provides livelihood opportunities, especially in rural areas. By promoting creative reuse of biological waste, the study supports the sustainable use of natural resources and biodiversity conservation.

Keywords:

Biodiversity, Ecosystem, Fish Scale, Fish Scales Handicrafts, Waste Utilization, Economic Independency, Women Empowerment.