Kathmandu faces a pressing environmental crisis as throwaway plastic pollution continues to escalate, with millions of plastic bags used daily, contributing to massive waste accumulation. Despite governmental attempts to regulate single-use plastics, powerful corporate interests and the COVID-19 pandemic pose significant challenges. However, organizations like Creasion are stepping up with recycling initiatives, focusing on PET bottle recycling to mitigate waste and empower marginalized waste workers. Through collaborative efforts, these initiatives aim to address Kathmandu's plastic crisis and promote a sustainable future.
Original article written by : Aria Shree Parasai
Throwaway plastic pollution is swiftly emerging as one of the most urgent environmental crises globally, with Kathmandu finding itself deeply entangled in this dilemma. Reports suggest that the city's daily consumption of a staggering 4.8 million plastic bags results in the disposal of approximately 800 tons of non-biodegradable waste into landfills. This relentless plastic usage poses severe consequences, with these materials taking an astonishingly long time to decompose fully, contaminating vital resources such as water, soil, and air, and exacerbating the ongoing climate crisis.
Despite governmental efforts to curb single-use plastics, such initiatives have faced challenges due to various factors, including powerful corporate interests exerting influence through lobbying. Additionally, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic further complicated the issue, with increased demand for disposable plastic items like masks and gloves adding to the already overwhelming plastic waste stream. However, amidst these challenges, organizations like Creasion have emerged as champions of change, spearheading recycling initiatives to combat the plastic crisis.
Established in 2005, Creasion focuses on recycling PET bottles as a means to mitigate waste and create employment opportunities. Through programs like Recycler Saathi, the organization collaborates closely with waste workers, providing fair compensation, essential safety equipment, and valuable training to uplift their livelihoods. These efforts not only contribute to environmental cleanup but also empower marginalized waste workers, predominantly hailing from underserved communities. Additionally, Creasion's impact extends beyond recycling efforts, as the organization actively engages with schools to educate young minds about waste management and environmental conservation. Through collaborative action and grassroots efforts, organizations like Creasion are playing a pivotal role in addressing Kathmandu's plastic crisis and paving the way towards a cleaner, greener future.