2.7 tons of plastic waste is produced in Nepal every day out of which 80% ends up in landfills, causing irreversible damage by polluting our soil and water bodies. Innovative solutions, especially the ones led by youth, must be encouraged to solve such pressing environmental problems. To solve this issue, Dopper, a social enterprise from the Netherlands, organised the Changemaker Challenge and joined forces with HCI. Dopper focusses on creating awareness, change and education. Especially education is important, to make sure the next generation is aware of the change they can make in reducing single-use plastic and water pollution.
On June 15, the final of this challenge took place at the Traditional Water Spout Hiti at Patan Durbar Square. Joined by Deputy Mayor of Lalitpur Municipality, Gita Satyal, the top 10 finalist pitched their innovative ideas to solve plastic and water pollution problems.
Anisha Maharjan, with her graduating research about creating a model to solve the urban flood problem of Kathmandu valley through research, pilot demonstration and policy advocacy, won the title of ‘Dopper Changemaker 2019’, Rs 200,000 research fund, network introductions and PR to make her idea groundbreaking.
During the final event in Kathmandu, Deputy Mayor of Lalitpur Municipality, Gita Satyal said, “In the midst of the brain drain that Nepal is seeing, it is so encouraging to see the innovative ideas of youths who want to stay in Nepal and work on solve the most pressing issues of our country. I commit to do the best from my position to make sure that these ideas are put into policy and action.” The students were judged on impact, innovation, feasibility and the presentation. Together with the jury and partners Blinc Ventures, Smart Paani and CERAD, Dopper and HCI will guide all top 10 finalists to give their ideas a kickstart to turn them into solutions in the ground.
