Doko Recyclers holds workshop with Practical Action on e-waste EPR framework

KATHMANDU: Doko Recyclers held a dissemination workshop on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in collaboration with Practical Action Nepal on Friday. The event was organised to discuss the need for an EPR policy and to present a proposed framework covering e-waste and e-cooking devices.  

“Electric stoves and pressure cookers are being distributed through different projects for clean cooking. To further the clean cooking strategy, the government has started to repress traditional firewood cooking and integrate electric cooking through various means,” said Pankaj Panjiyar, Chief Executive Officer of Doko Recyclers.  

Nepal has begun shifting towards e-cooking devices because of their clean-energy credentials. However, this transition has led to a rise in e-waste, creating a new stream of electronic refuse that, if mismanaged, could pose serious environmental and health risks. To minimise and mitigate these hazards, Doko Recyclers partnered with Practical Action to develop an EPR framework that incorporates robust e-waste management.  

“The EPR offers a proven solution globally, making producers accountable for their products both during their useful life cycle and during the end-of-life phase once the product and packaging become waste,” CEO Panjiyar added.  

The proposal outlines three distinct EPR models: project-based EPR for distribution, device-based EPR for producers and a nationwide EPR policy for all e-waste. Each model defines the roles of stakeholders—from manufacturers and consumers to informal waste workers—and establishes mechanisms for tracking, collection, recycling, sustainable funding and the promotion of a circular economy to reduce environmental harm.  

“Let’s leverage lessons from this partnership to expand the model and build a comprehensive EPR system for a cleaner, greener Nepal. Big change starts small,” said Bhuwan Chalise of Practical Action Nepal.  

Following the framework’s success, Doko Recyclers and Practical Action now aim to integrate most, if not all, e-device companies into the scheme and to push for it to become legally binding.  

The EPR framework was developed from a report compiled by the entire Doko team, alongside multiple contributors, to prevent improper e-waste disposal in Nepal. It seeks to foster sustainable e-waste management practices and contribute to a greener future.