"With determination, innovation, and collaboration, we can turn the tide against plastic pollution and pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future."
Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing and challenging environmental crisis of our time, affecting every corner of our planet, from the deepest oceans to our freshwater sources. The growing use of plastic, particularly single-use items like bottles, has led to severe environmental impacts. But in the light of this crisis, there is hope in reducing plastic production, reusing plastic products, and recycling what we can. Yet, as I have come to learn, recycling plastic is far more challenging than producing it.
As an environmental professional, I was always concerned about protecting our environment. However, it wasn’t until I became an Environmental Safeguarding Officer for Project CAP at CREASION that I truly understood the complexities of tackling plastic pollution.
Prior to joining CREASION, I was aware of the plastic waste problem in rivers and landfills, but I hadn't fully realized the magnitude of the issue. My perspective shifted when I learned about the seven types of plastic, their composition and the challenges of recycling them in a country like Nepal. I discovered that while some companies recycle clear PET bottles, colored PET bottles are often rejected due to their complex composition. Moreover, the release of microplastics during recycling poses another significant challenge, affecting both the environment and aquatic life.
One of the key components of Project CAP is the establishment of a PET Recycling Facility (PRF) in Bharatpur Metropolitan, Chitwan, Nepal. Although the idea of recycling seems straightforward, the reality is much more complex. Recycling plastic is significantly more expensive than producing new plastic, and the process itself is riddled with challenges. Despite these difficulties, I felt a surge of motivation and purpose during my visit to the proposed PRF site in Bharatpur, just two weeks after joining the team.
This visit was more than just an introduction to the project. It was a lesson in teamwork, dedication, and the power of collaboration. Surrounded by experts acing their roles, I felt valued and supported. The team's guidance and warmth have been a source of inspiration, motivating me to approach my responsibilities with honesty and dedication.
Establishing a facility to manage and add value to plastic waste is no easy task. My involvement in the CAP Project has opened my eyes to the realities of plastic recycling: the high costs, environmental risks, and the intricate legal and administrative work required.
However, what stands out most about this project is its innovative approach to overcoming these challenges. The CAP Project has implemented fantastic and forward-thinking ideas to mitigate potential risks. From selecting advanced machinery designed to minimize air and noise pollution to integrating an Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) that treats wastewater from the PET Recycling Facility (PRF), every aspect of the project is carefully planned and accountable. The inclusion of the ETP is particularly noteworthy, as it plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of microplastic contamination in the environment.
As the Environmental Safeguarding Officer, my responsibility is to ensure that every step of the PRF construction and operation aligns with national regulations and environmental standards. To this end, I prepared the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP), which serves as a guiding document for the project. My recent field visit to the PRF site in Bharatpur provided valuable insights into the importance of safeguarding both the workers and the surrounding community. Even a small oversight on the worksite can lead to significant risks and injuries, which is why careful monitoring and strict adherence to safety protocols are essential.
Understanding the baseline environment of the project site and committing to restoring it as closely as possible after the project is completed is both a challenge and a driving motivation for me. Our efforts range from managing construction waste and controlling pollution to ensuring the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and providing Occupational Health and Safety training to workers have already led to significant improvements in the PRF construction process. Of course, challenges remain. External factors, such as weather, can affect the project's progress. The monsoon season, for example, delayed some construction activities, but it also brought unexpected benefits, such as reducing dust emissions from construction materials—a reminder that even challenges can present opportunities.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the crucial role of behavioral change. While workers may understand the rules and regulations, their willingness to adopt and take responsibility for these changes is what truly makes a difference. My goal is to inspire this change, to empower workers to take ownership of their safety and health, and to ensure that the PRF site meets the highest environmental and social standards. I am fully committed to this mission, and I eagerly anticipate my next visit to the PRF site at Bharatpur. I hope to see continued progress in both environmental and social safeguarding. With determination, innovation, and collaboration, we can turn the tide against plastic pollution and pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future.
