Kathmandu, Nepal – On World Environment Day 2025, all five grantees of the PLEASE project showcased their groundbreaking products and services, drawing high praise from distinguished attendees. The event, a focal point for Beating Plastic Pollution action, saw the convergence of key figures including the State Minister for Forest and Environment, the Vice Chairman of the National Planning Commission (NPC), and the UNOPS Nepal Country Manager, alongside reporters, academicians, and civil society members.

The highlight of the showcase was the innovative board material crafted from recycled low-value and single-use plastics. The Minister and the NPC Vice Chairman were particularly impressed, engaging in detailed inquiries about the product’s quality, standards, and long-term sustainability. Their keen interest underscores the potential of such innovations to contribute significantly to Nepal’s circular economy.

In a compelling speech, the UNOPS Nepal Country Manager, Komal Karki, highlighted the tangible outcomes of the PLEASE project. “Innovation in Recycling – Boards from Plastic Waste…as a game-changer,” he stated, referencing the new plant in the Simara SEZ. He also pointed to another state-of-an-art facility in Bharatpur transforming PET bottles into high-quality granules, showcasing closed-loop recycling.Furthermore, he added about the PLEASE project’s profound community impact, noting, “the ‘PLEASE’ project has made profound contributions at the community level.” This includes supporting 102 women-led businesses, reaching 35,000 people through awareness campaigns, and creating 95 dignified jobs, with a strong focus on empowering women in the waste management sector.

The event powerfully demonstrated that viable, scalable solutions to plastic pollution are not just theoretical but are being successfully implemented in Nepal. The impressive outputs of the PLEASE project serve as a powerful catalyst for further investment and broader adoption of sustainable waste management practices, truly embodying the spirit of beating plastic pollution.