BOTTOM-UP APPROACH
Prioritizing the involvement and empowerment of local communities, individuals, or organizations in decision-making processes and initiatives.
Bottom-up approach refers to a method or strategy that begins at the grassroots level, prioritizing the involvement and empowerment of local communities, individuals, or organizations in decision-making processes and initiatives. Despite their vital role in recycling and recovery efforts, informal waste workers (IWWs) in Nepal, especially women and minority groups, are severely marginalized and exploited.
A study by CREASION revealed their exploitation in terms of working conditions, wages, and lack of social support, impacting their livelihoods. To address this, we plan to strengthen a WWs CSO, focusing on organizational management and representation of their interests.
Engaging marginalized communities like Dhobi and fishermen for waste collection in Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) and involving local governments in MRFs will help manage plastic waste. Youth groups will receive training in community advocacy, aiming to increase participation in awareness programs and personal development. Additionally, educational programs will integrate young children into plastic waste management efforts, fostering environmental awareness.
TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION
Innovative technology to manage plastic waste effectively, particularly targeting colored PET bottles
The project introduces innovative technology to manage plastic waste effectively, particularly targeting colored PET bottles, which currently lack proper recycling solutions in Nepal. By converting these bottles into PET straps, the project aims to reduce environmental leakage and meet market demand. Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) capable of treating microplastics, a first in Nepal, will ensure the highest quality output suitable for food-grade products.
Leveraging CREASION's existing network of balers and aggregators, along with proposed Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), the project will collect and process all types of plastic waste, guaranteeing comprehensive recycling.
COLLABORATIVE APPROACH
A collaborative model involving local governments, private sectors, civil societies, and marginalized groups.
Plastic waste management in Nepal is currently disjointed, with various stakeholders operating independently. To address this, the project proposes a collaborative model involving local governments, private sectors, civil societies, and marginalized groups. By engaging these stakeholders, particularly youth, children, marginalized women, and waste workers, the project aims to establish an inclusive and participatory approach to building a robust plastic waste recovery supply chain.
Through stakeholder dialogue, the project will advocate for recycled plastic standardization, while youth cohorts will facilitate awareness activities and knowledge dissemination, fostering behavioral change within the community for long-term sustainability.