Turning Trash into Cash

In the bustling city of Kathmandu, hotels generate a significant amount of waste, yet only a small fraction is recycled or upcycled. According to a recent survey, hotels in Kathmandu produce around 66% biodegradable waste, but much of it ends up in landfills. Recognizing this challenge, UNDP Nepal launched an innovative intervention called "Turning Trash into Cash." This initiative aimed to transform waste management practices within the hospitality sector, providing a two-week intensive training to 30 selected hoteliers in Kathmandu.

Hotel business owners and staff participated in a comprehensive two-week training program focused on waste management. The primary objectives were to maximize the percentage of recycled waste, minimize plastic waste production, and promote environmentally friendly practices within hotels. This training was designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to implement sustainable waste management practices effectively.

One of the notable participants in the training was Gokarna Forest Resort, a renowned resort in Kathmandu. Initially, the resort recycled only 5% of its waste. However, following the training, Gokarna Forest Resort implemented a no-plastic policy, ceasing the use of plastic bottled water and switching to glass bottles instead. They adopted various green policies, which significantly increased their recycling rate from 5% to an impressive 40%.

Sashi Kumar Thapa, the hotel manager, expressed his gratitude for the training: "The training was incredibly helpful in understanding the impact of plastic waste. It motivated us to become a responsible business by turning green. We are proud to be a role model in recycling waste and promoting green business practices."

The success of Gokarna Forest Resort highlights the potential for other hotels to follow suit. By adopting similar green policies and waste management practices, hotels can significantly reduce their environmental footprint, contribute to a cleaner city, and set a standard for responsible business operations.

UNDP Nepal's 'Turning Trash into Cash' initiative is a testament to the positive impact that targeted training and support can have on promoting sustainable practices within the hospitality industry. As more hotels embrace these practices, Kathmandu can look forward to a greener, more sustainable future.

The initiative's success can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, the training provided by UNDP Nepal was comprehensive and practical, covering various aspects of waste management, including waste segregation, recycling techniques, and the importance of reducing plastic usage. This hands-on approach ensured that participants could immediately apply what they learned in their respective hotels.

Secondly, the initiative fostered a sense of community and collaboration among the participating hotels. By bringing together hoteliers from different establishments, the program created a platform for sharing ideas, experiences, and best practices. This collaborative environment encouraged participants to learn from each other and work together towards a common goal of sustainability.

Moreover, the initiative emphasized the economic benefits of sustainable waste management. By reducing waste and recycling more, hotels could lower their operational costs and potentially generate additional revenue through the sale of recyclable materials. This financial incentive made the adoption of green practices more appealing to hotel owners and managers.

The impact of the 'Turning Trash into Cash' initiative extends beyond the participating hotels. As these hotels implement sustainable waste management practices, they set an example for other businesses in the hospitality sector and beyond. The visibility of their efforts raises awareness about the importance of waste management and encourages other businesses to follow suit.

Furthermore, the initiative contributes to the broader goals of environmental sustainability in Kathmandu. By reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills, the program helps to alleviate the city's waste management challenges. It also supports the city's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and combat climate change.

In addition to waste management, the initiative promotes the use of electric vehicles (EVs) and bicycles for internal transportation within hotels. This shift towards sustainable transportation methods not only reduces the carbon footprint of these establishments but also sets a positive example for guests and other businesses. By adopting EVs and bicycles, hotels can further enhance their commitment to environmental sustainability and contribute to a cleaner, healthier city.

In conclusion, the 'Turning Trash into Cash' initiative by UNDP Nepal is a shining example of how targeted training and support can drive positive change in waste management practices within the hospitality sector. The success of Gokarna Forest Resort and other participating hotels demonstrates the potential for significant environmental and economic benefits. As more hotels in Kathmandu and beyond embrace sustainable waste management practices, the city can look forward to a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future.