Global Recycling Day 2026
Kathmandu, Nepal
March 18, 2026
Global Recycling Day 2026 was successfully held near UN Park in Lalitpur with the objective of promoting sustainable waste management, recycling practices, and a circular economy.
Organized by CREASION under the GreenShift Project and funded by the European Union, the event was conducted under the global theme “Don’t Think Waste - Think Opportunity.” The program aimed to convey the message that waste should not only be viewed as a problem, but also as a valuable resource and an opportunity for sustainable development.
The program was attended by the Deputy Mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City, Manjali Shakya Bajracharya , as the Chief Guest. In her remarks, she noted that the occasion coincided with Global Recycling Day (GRD) and reflected on the level of public awareness surrounding its significance. She expressed sincere appreciation to the organizers for hosting the event to mark the day and congratulated all involved, emphasizing its importance.
She highlighted that while GRD is observed globally, meaningful impact begins with individual action. She encouraged participants to recognize and value the dedication and hard work of sanitation workers, who contribute daily to maintaining cleanliness. Emphasizing the need for a shift in mindset, she stated that waste should be viewed not as a problem but as an opportunity.
She further shared that the municipality is actively working to plan and strengthen waste management systems, although challenges persist. Concluding her remarks, she extended her gratitude to Creasion Nepal and the European Union for their continued support and contribution.
The Special Guest, José Luis Vinuesa Santamaría, Head of Cooperation of the European Union to Nepal, He conveyed his appreciation for the gathering, noting the collective commitment toward advancing a sustainable future.
He also highlighted that initiatives like Green Shift Nepal and the promotion of green circularity play a vital role in encouraging practices centered on reduction, reuse, recovery, and recycling. Concluding his remarks, he stated that these collective actions are essential for building a sustainable future and creating new employment opportunities.
Sujata Koirala, Program Director of Creasion, she highlighted that although plastic has traditionally been viewed as a problem, it is increasingly presenting new opportunities that must be recognized and addressed. She further emphasized that the primary objective of the program is to foster collective progress by exploring and advancing these emerging opportunities together.
Chairing the event, Aruna Karki, President of Creasion Nepal, addressed the closing session, expressing sincere appreciation to all attendees and noting that the atmosphere of the event reflected a strong sense of positive energy and commitment. She emphasized that the Greenshift initiative is not merely a project, but a movement toward meaningful transformation.
She highlighted that the energy, exchange of ideas, and enthusiasm demonstrated during the event clearly indicate that the momentum for green transformation is steadily growing.
In conclusion, she expressed confidence that the discussions, collaboration, and energy demonstrated during the event represent an important step toward building a greener, more sustainable, and inclusive future, and concluded with the message: “Don’t think waste, think opportunity.”
The inaugural session began at 7:30 AM in Shankhamul, bringing together representatives from Lalitpur Metropolitan City, the European Union Delegation, government environmental agencies, and various national and international organizations.
One of the major highlights of the event was a cycle rally involving around 100 waste collectors from across the Kathmandu Valley. The rally began in UN Park and passed through Thapathali Bridege, the Bagmati Corridor, Balkhu Bridge, Nakhu, and Bhanimandal, Jwalakhel, Pulchowk Eingineering Campus, before concluding back in UN Park. The rally aimed to recognize the invaluable contribution of waste workers while raising public awareness on waste segregation, recycling, and responsible consumption.
The program witnessed participation from approximately 300 to 500 participants, including recycling and upcycling entrepreneurs, waste collector groups, youth innovators, and organizations engaged in green businesses.
During the event, certificates of appreciation were presented to recycling entrepreneurs, waste collectors, and partner organizations collaborating with the project. In addition, two thematic panel discussions were organized, where experts and practitioners discussed opportunities, challenges, and innovations in recycling and circular economy practices.
Panelists emphasized that recycling plays a vital role in reducing waste volumes, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns.
Environmental experts also highlighted that such initiatives directly support the constitutional right to a clean and healthy environment in Nepal, and align with national policy frameworks including the Solid Waste Management Act 2011 Nepal and the National Environment Policy 2019 Nepal.
According to the organizers, the event held on the occasion of Global Recycling Day is expected to strengthen collaboration among local governments, the private sector, youth groups, and environmental organizations, contributing to cleaner cities, sustainable livelihoods, and the advancement of a green economy in Nepal.
