In Janakpur and Bharatpur, young people are reimagining climate action in truly impactful ways. Through the EU-funded GreenShift project, our Youth Advocacy Groups are running hands-on upcycling workshops right in the community. These aren’t just about understanding a circular economy; they’re about equipping women with practical new skills that build dignity, spark creativity, and open doors to earning an income.
Saral Nepal: Reviving Heritage Through Plastic Upcycling
From 10 to 13 May, our Youth Advocacy Group from Bharatpur Metropolitan City, Saral Nepal held a unique four-day training in Hanuman Nagar Tole, focused on converting household plastic waste into traditional Nepali crafts like Dhakiya and Chakati. Twenty women from the local community took part, weaving sustainability with heritage to produce items that are both beautiful and marketable.
“We are not just teaching them a skill, we are helping them see that plastic can have value if we reimagine its purpose,” said Laxmi Sapkota Kandel, one of the trainers.
The training began with local leaders expressing strong support. Mr. Bishnu Bahadur Bhujel, Executive Member of Bharatpur Metropolitan City, remarked on the importance of circular economy education. Ward Councilor Chandra Poudel emphasized continued support for community-based women-led efforts, while Mr. Bharat Poudel, from the local development committee, called it a “revolutionary” approach to grassroots development.
CARD Nepal: Creating Skills and Livelihoods in Janakpur
From 9 to 14 June, our Youth Advocacy Group from Janakpurdham Sub-Metropolitan City, CARD Nepal brought together local women, girls, and students in Ward 25 of Janakpur for a vibrant upcycling training under the GreenShift project. Participants learned how to craft decorative items from discarded plastic, blending climate action with skill-building and economic opportunity.
“This is not just about waste management. It’s about creativity, sustainability, and giving women and girls tools to lead,” said one participant proudly showing her handmade items.
What made the training even more powerful was the involvement of students from nearby Climate Smart Schools, turning it into a truly intergenerational and inclusive initiative. The hands-on experience helped participants connect environmental responsibility with practical livelihood options that could be sustained beyond the training.
