Project CAP (Collaborative Approach for Preventing Plastic Leakages in Rivers of Nepal)
A project run by CREASION, aims to divert plastic waste into product value chain from landfills and rivers by strengthening plastic waste collection mechanism and strengthening recycling efforts through the introduction of technological innovations.
The project will develop a collaborative model to engage all the major stakeholders in establishing a strong plastic waste value chain. Project CAP is one of the projects by the PLEASE (Plastic Free Rivers and Seas of South Asia) in Nepal, which is implemented by the South Asia Cooperative Environment Program (SACEP), supported by United Nations Procurement Services Secretariat (UNOPS) and the World Bank.
Plastic use has surged in Nepal over the past decades
A study by the World Bank found that a substantial amount of plastic waste ends up in urban landfills daily, as recycling facilities are limited. Consequently, much of the waste is either burned or dumped near riversides. The main issue appears to be the inadequate waste collection and management system.
Informal waste workers play a crucial role in waste management but often face marginalization.
Similarly, fishermen and washer communities depend on rivers for their livelihoods, which have been affected by pollution in the rivers. This project offers training to these communities and other vulnerable groups to collect plastic waste from rivers. Selling this waste provides them with additional income while contributing to environmental improvement.
Once collected, the waste will be transported to Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), where it will undergo sorting and baling process.
Subsequently, it will be transported to the PET recycling facility, where advanced processes will transform it into pellets and straps. These materials will serve as valuable raw materials for the manufacturing of new goods, contributing to a sustainable cycle of resource utilization.
Through this process, the waste bottles that were previously discarded in open areas will undergo a remarkable transformation.
Instead of remaining as pollution hazards, these bottles will turn into valuable resources. By reclaiming and recycling them, a sustainable cycle of resource utilization is created.
Meanwhile, efforts will be made to engage students and youths in adopting practical sustainable habits in their daily lives.
They will be encouraged to implement eco-friendly practices and take proactive steps to keep the rivers clean. Additionally, they will be empowered to raise awareness within their communities, encouraging others to follow suit. By involving the younger generation in promoting sustainability, a culture of environmental responsibility will be nurtured, benefiting both present and future generations.
By strengthening the waste collection and recycling mechanism, and spreading awareness around environmental sustainability, the amount of waste ending up in our rivers will be greatly reduced.
This means plastic waste is better managed and reintroduced into the economy instead of being thrown into the rivers. Over time, this effort will lead to cleaner rivers for everyone to enjoy. It's a win-win situation: less pollution in our rivers and healthier environments for aquatic life and our communities.