On November 17, 2025, ASEZ held a “Zero Plastic 2040” seminar at Bright Future College in Satdobato, Lalitpur, Nepal. The seminar was organized to raise awareness about the impacts of plastic pollution and to encourage practical action beginning within university campuses and everyday life.
The event was attended by Mr. Kishor Adhikari, Dean and Chairman of the Board at Bright Future College; Mr. Basudev Koirala, Middle and High School Principal; and Mr. Milan Shrestha, School and College Coordinator. Approximately 87 college students and 20 ASEZ members also participated in the seminar.
In recent years, Nepal has experienced a steady increase in plastic use due to urbanization and changing consumption patterns. As a result, concerns over waste management and environmental pollution have intensified. ASEZ organized the seminar to provide a clearer understanding of how plastic affects the natural environment, ecosystems, and long-term human health.
The program began with the singing of the Nepalese National Anthem, followed by an introduction to ASEZ’s vision and its global environmental and volunteer initiatives. Participants then watched a video introducing the Zero Plastic 2040 Global Campaign, which showcased youth-led activities from around the world. ASEZ members also performed the song “Right Now, Right Here,” sharing the message that meaningful change begins with immediate action.
The main session of the seminar featured a presentation addressing key issues such as plastic production and consumption patterns, environmental and health impacts, and the growing problem of microplastics caused by improper disposal and degradation. Many students shared that the presentation helped them gain a more systematic and in-depth understanding of plastic pollution and the importance of adopting practical changes in daily life.
Following the presentation, Mr.Kishor Adhikari emphasized the importance of education and awareness, stating:
“Despite government-level efforts and regulations, public awareness of the impact of plastics remains insufficient. Education and awareness-raising activities play a crucial role in encouraging behavioral change.”
He added that ASEZ’s seminar would contribute meaningfully to expanding awareness within the local community.
Student participants also reflected on their roles at both the individual and campus levels. One student shared, “I now understand more clearly how plastics are produced and how they affect the environment. I will begin reducing excessive plastic use starting at home and at school.”
At the conclusion of the event, ASEZ presented the school with a commemorative item symbolizing the vision of Zero Plastic 2040, expressing a commitment to continued cooperation and action. In appreciation of the seminar, Bright Future College awarded ASEZ a Certificate of Appreciation.
School officials also expressed their support for international efforts to address plastic pollution by signing in support of the Global Plastics Treaty. The seminar was shared through the school’s official channels and was also covered by local media outlet Jana Awaaj News.
Building on this initiative, the ASEZ Chapter in Nepal plans to expand collaboration with universities and schools in Lalitpur and the Kathmandu area, continuing campus-based education and action programs. Through the Zero Plastic 2040 Campaign, ASEZ remains committed to promoting youth-led participation and contributing to the creation of cleaner, more sustainable communities.