PLEASE Hack, organized under the Plastic Free Rivers and Seas for South Asia (PLEASE) Project, is a youth-driven initiative implemented by SACEP, funded by The World Bank and with implementing support from UNOPS. It aims to inspire young people aged 18 to 30 from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka to develop innovative solutions that tackle the critical issue of plastic pollution in rivers and seas.
This Hackathon offers a virtual, two-week collaborative platform for participants to work on projects in three main categories.
Winner: $20,000
1st Runner Up: $10,000
2nd Runner Up: 5,000
An innovative solution that can be used by citizens at household or community level as current users of plastics in their daily lives
An innovative solution that may be adopted by a Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) that currently uses plastics in its production or distribution processes
A knowledge-sharing system through a website or mobile app (or both) that enhances consumer-level awareness of plastic use in daily life and helps them be more conscious of their plastic footprint, inspiring individual action.
Download the PLEASE Hack Guidebook to explore detailed information about the Hackathon, including the application process, timeline, participation guidelines and other key details.
Watch the below information sessions to learn more
An innovative solution that can be used by citizens at household or community level as current users of plastics in their daily lives.
Develop critical skills like teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving, guided by expert mentors.
Gain international recognition, network with like-minded peers and specialists, and showcase your ideas on a prominent platform.
Be part of the movement to transition South Asia into a circular economy, addressing plastic waste at its core.
Secure funding and mentorship to turn your innovative idea into a viable product within two months.
The hackathon aims to engage youth from South Asia in developing innovative solutions to reduce plastic pollution in rivers and seas, fostering creativity and collaboration.
Participants must be aged 18 to 30 as of December 31, 2025, and citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
No, participation is limited to citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, or Sri Lanka, regardless of their current residence.
Yes, as long as you are a citizen of one of the eight eligible countries, you can participate even if you currently reside in another country.
Solutions should fall into one of these categories:
Registration links and the Hackathon guidebook is accessible on the PLEASE Project website.
The hackathon will primarily take place online via a dedicated virtual platform. Registered participants will access resources, submit concept notes, and participate in a series of learning activities including workshops through this platform. The final round will be held as a physical event in Sri Lanka.
Participants will have access to international/national guest speakers in relevant fields, knowledge-sharing sessions, and expert-led workshops on technical and presentation skills.
Solutions will be assessed on innovation, sustainability, affordability, accessibility, and alignment with the AIR (Avoid, Intercept, Redesign) principles. Originality and scalability are also critical factors.
Resources include the Hackathon Guidebook, recorded knowledge-sharing sessions, mentor profiles, and additional reading materials on plastic pollution and innovative solutions.
The winning team will take home impressing cash prizes:
Winner – USD 20,000
First Runner Up – USD 10,000
Second Runner Up – USD 5,000
Travel arrangements, including visas, accommodation, and insurance, will be supported by the organizers for participants selected for the final pitch in Sri Lanka.
While adaptations of existing solutions are allowed, the idea must be tailored to South Asia’s context and meet the hackathon’s originality criteria. Plagiarism and IPR violations are strictly prohibited.
Participants whose solutions are not shortlisted will still gain valuable insights, mentorship, and resources through their participation.
The Plastic Free Rivers and Seas for South Asia (PLEASE) Project is implemented by the South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme, funded by the World Bank, with implementing support from UNOPS.
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