Strengthening Circular Economy through Data-Driven Waste Assessment in Kathmandu
Description
This project assessed recyclable scrap and electronic waste management in Kathmandu Metropolitan City using surveys, audits, interviews, and GIS mapping. It revealed that 124.4 tons of dry waste could be recovered daily with proper segregation. The study highlights inefficiencies in the current system and recommends policy reforms, including EPR, plastic regulations, and financial incentives to improve environmental and economic outcomes.
Impact
173+
Mapped the dry waste landscape of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, revealing that 173.5 tons are generated daily, of which 124.4 tons are potentially recoverable through source segregation.
Identified major inefficiencies in current collection and segregation systems, underscoring the need for improved operational models.
Provided actionable policy recommendations, including EPR adoption, plastic regulation reform, tax incentives, and investment in source segregation infrastructure.
This project was undertaken to evaluate the current landscape of recyclable scrap and electronic waste (e-waste) management in Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC), with the goal of informing more efficient, inclusive, and sustainable waste practices. Using a combination of household and institutional surveys, waste audits, key informant interviews, and GIS mapping, the study produced a comprehensive picture of KMC’s dry waste streams. It found that the city generates approximately 173.5 tons of dry waste daily, of which 124.4 tons could be recovered through effective source segregation—demonstrating a significant opportunity for material recovery and economic gain. The study identified the key actors in Kathmandu’s informal and formal waste value chains and analyzed both the environmental and economic implications of current practices.
Findings pointed to several systemic challenges, including inefficient collection and segregation processes, insufficient infrastructure for e-waste recovery, and low public awareness regarding safe disposal methods—particularly for electronic waste. The research recommends a set of policy interventions to address these gaps, including the development and implementation of an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework, reforms in plastic and tax policies, and financial incentives to promote recycling and source-level segregation. By aligning data with actionable strategies, the project aims to support Kathmandu Metropolitan City in transitioning toward a more circular and environmentally responsible waste management system.
