Day 2 - Kodaikanal

Today we rented a car that took us to Berijam Lake, about 30 km outside of Kodai. This natural lake is a protected area where only a limited number of small vehicles (such as cars, vans and even mini-buses) are allowed each day, after applying for a permit. There are no shops or eating places and people taking food and beverages are supposed bring back their trash with them. The lake was pristine and quiet even as loud tourists jumped off buses and headed to the water, scaring away groups of monkeys diving off a low tree branch into the cool water. Small fish nibbled at our feet as we stood in refreshingly cold ankle-deep water. A few heron perched on the opposite bank while a couple of baby mallards swam around aimlessly with their spiky hair.

While the scenery was picturesque, equally riveting was the sight of orange and blue Lays chips packets, abandoned by tourists at the water’s edge. Plastic water bottles bobbed in the water, remnants of thirsty tourists uncaring of their contributions to the lakeside. Pepsicos contribution to the Indian environment can be found in any remote town and village. Even responsible hill-stations like Kodai and Munnar which have sensibly banned plastic, are not able to get rid of the scrounge of plastic wrappers that Pepsico’s marketing might has ensured touching lives in the most remote places within India. If an influential international giant like Pepsico would take even one small step to investigate biodegradable alternatives to food packaging, it would make the world a better place for everyone. Corporate social responsibility does not lie in setting aside sums of money for charity, it begins with looking within to see how you can incorporate sustainable business practices that are gentle on the world that you live in and make it part of your vision. Are you listening Indra Nooyi?