On the occasion of World Environment Day, ICIMOD and Ward 3 of the Godawari Municipality organized a clean-up campaign with support from GRAPE. The theme of World Environment Day 2022 was “Beat Plastic Pollution,"  an urgent call to immediately phase out the use of plastics and find and support sustainable alternatives. The event highlighted the importance of a clean environment and raised awareness about waste management, especially among its many young participants.

More than 350 people came together for the clean-up effort; most prominently represented were high school students, young monks from the local monasteries, and local stakeholders, demonstrating the impressive commitment of the local youth to environmental protection.

The Honorable Member of Parliament Nawraj Silwal was present as Chief Guest, while the Chair of Godavari Municipality Ward-3, Sanuraja Ghimire, played an instrumental role in organizing the event. ICIMOD Director General Dr. Pema’s and GIZ Country Director Dr. Förster’s presence, active participation in the collection of waste, and thoughtful remarks were instrumental in re-enforcing the need for waste management in the Godavari landscape and encouraging the participants to collaborate for this cause.