Empowering the Next Generation through Zero Waste at Schools (ZWAS) Program
The Zero Waste at Schools (ZWAS) program, supported by @imsweden through the ‘Intersectional Green Futures: Advancing Climate Justice for All’ initiative, is making a significant impact in Nepal. The program has reached 203 students across five community schools in the Kapilvastu, Salyan, and Dang districts, focusing on promoting sustainable waste management practices. ZWAS aims to create a ripple effect of change by educating students and extending this knowledge to their homes and broader communities, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.
The program is built around seven hands-on modules that cover key aspects of waste management, including waste segregation, the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle), composting, and the impacts of open-air waste burning. It also addresses e-waste management and the connection between waste management practices and climate change. These interactive modules provide practical lessons that help students and educators integrate sustainability into their everyday lives. Through training programs, workshops, and resources, ZWAS builds the capacity of schools to implement these practices effectively.
ZWAS is helping shape a generation of responsible citizens who are committed to environmental stewardship. Students gain a deeper understanding of the importance of managing waste sustainably and the broader impact on climate change. This knowledge doesn’t just stay within the classroom—it extends into their homes and communities, encouraging others to adopt similar practices. The program’s influence is already evident in the Kapilvastu, Salyan, and Dang districts, and with continued support, it aims to reach more schools and communities, building a larger network of individuals prepared to tackle climate challenges.
By empowering students and educators, ZWAS is contributing to a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for Nepal. Through this initiative, students are equipped to become change agents, spreading the message of sustainability and environmental responsibility. Together, we are building a future where sustainability is a core value—one student, one school, and one community at a time.