Link: Rubbish roads: Nepal explores paving with plastic

Nepal leverages discarded plastic for road construction in Pokhara, creating a sustainable use for low-value plastic waste. This process not only supports waste management but also enhances road quality.

The local company, Green Road Waste Management, initiated the innovative approach, using the mixed plastics that are otherwise non-recyclable. About 13% of the daily solid waste in Nepali cities is such plastic, predominantly ending up in landfills.

India has pioneered this approach since the early 2000s, influencing neighboring nations like Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. The technique involves coating road aggregates with plastic prior to adding bitumen.

Bimal Bastola, founder of Green Road Waste Management, states that plastic roads are cost-effective and durable, potentially doubling the lifespan compared to traditional roads. Roads made from plastic can better resist water penetration and require fewer raw materials.

Despite the promising results, extensive research is needed to fully understand the environmental impacts, especially concerning microplastic release and emissions during production. According to the World Bank, defining long-term effects and establishing governmental standards are essential next steps.

Nepal's incorporation of plastic waste into road building not only tackles the issue of waste management but also contributes to infrastructure development, presenting a significant opportunity for sustainable growth in developing regions. #

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