BHAKTAPUR: Marking Global Recycling Day 2025, Doko Recyclers officially inaugurated its Plastic Recovery Facility (PRF) in Sallahghari, Bhaktapur, under the PLEASE project—Plastic Free Rivers and Seas for South Asia.

Established in collaboration with the South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme (SACEP), the World Bank, and UNOPS, the initiative aims to transform Nepal’s approach to plastic waste by offering sustainable solutions for recycling low-value plastics, materials often left unprocessed and harmful to the environment.

“By turning this plastic into valuable products, we are contributing to a cleaner and greener future,” Doko Recyclers stated in a press release.

With a capacity to process 2,400 tons of mixed waste, the new facility represents a significant step toward a circular economy, one that recognizes the value of plastic waste, empowers informal waste collectors and women sorters, and strengthens Nepal’s recycling infrastructure.

The facility was inaugurated by Anjali Devaraja, Project Director of the PLEASE project, in the presence of more than 60 participants including clients, partners, and representatives from Bhaktapur Municipality, Changunarayan Municipality, Suryabinayak Municipality, Kathmandu Metropolitan City, and various embassies. Their presence, according to the organizers, reflects strong support for sustainable waste management practices in Nepal.

During the event, Doko Recyclers’ CEO, Pankaj Panjiyar, participated in a panel discussion on sustaining the momentum in combating plastic pollution. He highlighted the importance of regional cooperation, continued infrastructure investment, and accountability among all stakeholders to mitigate the environmental impact of plastic waste.

The event also featured a showcase stall highlighting the achievements of the PLEASE project through the PRF facility. A spotlight session brought together 27 participants from across South Asia who presented their respective projects. Among them, Doko Recyclers’ Raghavendra Mahto shared progress made in collaboration with Kathmandu Metropolitan City and outlined the project's journey in advancing infrastructure for plastic waste management.