Nepal launches gas and fertilizer production from solid waste

The city of Birendranagar in the Karnali region of Nepal is leading an environmental revolution by setting up a plant that transforms solid waste into gas and organic fertilizer. In a pioneering initiative, local entrepreneur Krishna Prasad Dhakal has introduced a new method to repurpose municipal waste into valuable resources. This marks the first endeavor of its kind in the area, driven by personal investment and notable support from international entities.

Dhakal has installed a sophisticated gas plant utilizing German technology, with a substantial investment of 140 million Indian rupees ($1,68mn), including a 50 million Indian rupees ($600K) grant from the World Bank. The initiative currently focuses on recycling waste from vegetable markets and shops, with plans to expand and include residential waste from the entire municipality.

The plant’s daily output is impressive, generating 720 quintals of gas and nine tons of organic fertilizer. The gas produced is versatile and suitable for both cooking and fueling gas-run vehicles. The initiative represents a significant stride in sustainable waste management in the region and also contributes to the local economy by providing employment to 19 individuals. The products are competitively priced, with gas retailing at 140 Indian rupees ($1.68) per kg and fertilizer at 25 Indian rupees ($0.30) per kg, making the products accessible to a broad population segment.

Source: The Rising Nepal