Bioplastics in Nepal - Pioneering a plastics-free future
A blog by Anima Piya and Khusi Luitel, Frontier Tech implementing Partners
Pilot: Bioplastic future: Using bioplastics to transform domestic plastic production
Zero Circular, implementing partner on the Frontier Technologies Hub Bioplastics pilot in Nepal imagines a plastics-free future transitioning Kathmandu’s plastic-heavy urban consumption habits to more circular, environmentally sound, materials use through home compostable and biodegradable plastics.
Zero Circular is at the forefront of this exciting change, which they say isn't just about swapping out traditional plastics; it's about crafting a sustainable future for all.
A plastic bag is used on average for 12 minutes but takes 1,000 years to break down.
Kathmandu’s household waste plastic composition has increased by nearly 50% from 13% in 2008 to 19% in 2020 and the city uses 4.8 million plastic bags daily; yet a consistent majority of the city’s total waste is organic (63%). Mixed waste is highly resource-intensive to manage and separate, resulting in direct-to-landfill practices – the same Sisdol landfill site that was built as a two-year stopgap until 2007, but is still receiving 1,200 tons daily. Globally, we continue to produce 160,000 bags every second and every individual consumes an average of 700 plastic bags every year.
Zero aims to close the plastic production tap that is responsible for generating 2.7 tons of plastic waste each day in Kathmandu alone.
There are alternatives.
Zero have been building the visibility and demand for bioplastics in Kathmandu first through B2B relationships with clients in retail and hospitality and then with local government partnerships, and digital and physical end-user interactions. Their cornstarch-based bioplastics are biodegradable and compostable alternatives to conventional petroleum-based plastics. They degrade within 180 days in a home compost bin, garden or appropriate environment.
The journey to circular materials consumption starts now.
Zero’s research found that retailers, restaurants, and service providers are increasingly adopting bioplastics in their operations, setting a new standard for sustainable living. By incorporating biodegradable bags and eco-friendly packaging, these businesses are not only reducing plastic waste but also raising customer awareness about the importance of environmentally friendly alternatives. This heightened awareness encourages consumers to consider their own environmental impact, driving demand for sustainable products. Consequently, more businesses are motivated to join the movement, creating a positive feedback loop of eco-consciousness.
Eco-conscious Nepali garment brands using Zero’s compostable packaging bags.
ZERO’s participation in Eco-exhibit at National Conference on Waste management and Circular Economy.
Transforming Le Sherpa Farmer’s market into plastic-free haven.
Every Saturday morning, the prestigious Farmer’s Market at Le Sherpa in Kathmandu becomes a vibrant meeting place for shoppers, farmers, and artisans. Here, visitors can find organic fruits and vegetables, locally produced European cheeses, fresh fish, artisanal bread and pastries, organic honey, homemade chutneys and jams, artisanal meats, and delicacies from Kathmandu’s finest restaurants. The market serves as a place of encounter between clients, farmers and artisans, facilitating discovery, debate and tasting.
People shopping at the Farmer’s market
Locals and expats connecting over a coffee
However, despite the farm-fresh appeal, the market has long overlooked an important issue: the excessive use of plastic. While a small, eco-conscious group has set an example by bringing their own bags, the majority of patrons, including many well-educated individuals, often rely on plastic packaging. Furthermore, there has been no system in place for waste segregation.
Eco-conscious customer bringing their own reusable bags
Recognising the need for change the owners of the farmers market were convinced to collaborate with Zero Circular. Zero have introduced paper and bioplastic alternatives to plastic packaging at the Farmer’s Market to support the Market’s goal of becoming entirely plastic-free this year. Zero has taken on the mission of raising awareness, educating, and advocating for biodegradable alternatives to single-use plastics at the market and beyond.
Settling up table at the Farmer’s market to advocate for biodegradable plastics
Initially, Zero had a stall at the market every Saturday, eventually transitioning to the first Saturday of each month. During these events, they showcased various biodegradable options that can replace petroleum-based conventional plastics. The response from market-goers has been overwhelmingly positive, ranging from curiosity, surprise at the availability of these alternatives to enthusiastic support and even direct sales of the bags
ZERO’s participation into helping make Farmer’s market go plastic-free since April 2024.
Despite this positive reception, Zero faced significant challenges. The primary hurdle is price sensitivity, especially given the competition from other market players. However, the growing interest and validation from the community indicate a promising shift towards sustainability.
Zero remains committed to supporting the market’s transition and continue to adapt to the market's needs, providing a variety of biodegradable products to help reduce plastic dependency in collaboration with the stallholders and shoppers. Through persistent efforts and community engagement, they are optimistic about achieving a plastic-free Farmer’s Market at Le Sherpa, setting a precedent for sustainable practices in Kathmandu and beyond.
If you’d like to dig in further…
🚀 Explore this pilot’s profile page
📚 Read about the pilot’s journey to transition to bioplastics through retrofitting
