Plastic pollution has emerged as a major environment problem in Nepal over the past few decades. What was once a problem confined to urban centres has now seeped into every corner of the country from the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the tranquil trails of the Annapurna Circuit. The sheer presence of plastic waste everywhere has turned it into an environmental scourge, choking waterways, degrading soil and endangering wildlife. Despite repeated attempts to mitigate, the problem persists, exacerbated by low public awareness, weak enforcement and systemic indifference. Rapid urbanisation and a surge in consumerism have led to an explosion in single-use plastics. In Kathmandu alone, an estimated 4,700 tons of solid waste are generated daily, a significant portion of which is non-biodegradable plastic. The convenience of disposable items has overshadowed their long-term costs and the lack of affordable alternatives has entrenched their use. Compounding the issue is an inefficient waste management system. Much of the plastic waste is either burned openly, releasing toxic fumes, or dumped haphazardly into rivers where it clogs waterways.

Nepal's rivers, once lifelines for communities and ecosystems, are now clogged with plastic debris. The Bagmati River, sacred to many, has become a tragic symbol of neglect as its waters suffocate under layers of waste. Soil fertility is diminishing as microplastics infiltrate agricultural land, and food security has become a concerning issue. Even human health is at stake with studies linking microplastic contamination to respiratory diseases and other chronic conditions. The environmental toll is staggering, yet the response has been frustratingly inadequate. Awareness remains woefully low. Many Nepalese, particularly in rural areas, remain unaware of the long-term hazards of plastic pollution, viewing it as a mere nuisance rather than a crisis. Even in urban centres, where the problem is most visible, behavioural change has remained slow. The cultural shift towards sustainable practices such as reusable bags and containers is long overdue. Public campaigns have been sporadic and underfunded, failing to instill a sense of urgency or collective responsibility. Enforcement too has been a repeated stumbling block. Kathmandu has seen multiple attempts to ban plastic bags with the latest prohibition on thin plastics introduced in 2023. Yet, these measures have largely been futile.

Stakeholders must work to combat plastic pollution through various initiatives, including reducing single-use plastics, promoting recycling and implementing sustainable practices across their properties and institutions. Strengthening waste management infrastructure is also critical. Equally important is to foster a cultural shift through sustained education and advocacy. There is also an unprecedented opportunity to promote collaborations among local governments, community leaders and environmental groups to promote sustainable practices while holding polluters accountable. Incentivising the private sector to innovate biodegradable packaging and reduce plastic dependency can be instrumental in mitigating the problem of plastic pollution.