The 7-Day Zero Waste at School and Well-Being Initiative at Shree Durga Laxmi Model School, Attariya, located in Ward No. 2 of Godawari Municipality, marked a significant turning point in the school’s journey toward cleanliness and environmental responsibility. With the technical support of CLEAN UP NEPAL, the program aimed to strengthen students’ understanding of waste management, hygiene, and sustainable living practices. Before the initiative, waste was often unmanaged, and students had limited knowledge about segregation and Zero Waste principles. However, through interactive sessions, practical demonstrations, and hands-on activities, students learned to separate biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste, practice proper handwashing, and reduce the use of single-use plastics in their daily routines.

As the program progressed, visible changes began to emerge within the school environment. Students actively participated in cleaning campaigns, monitored waste bins, and encouraged their peers to maintain classroom hygiene. The sense of responsibility and ownership among the children was remarkable; they began to see cleanliness not as a task assigned by teachers but as a shared duty. Teachers observed that students were even spreading awareness at home, advising family members to manage waste properly and keep their surroundings clean. The school has since committed to sustaining these efforts by strengthening cleanliness mechanisms at the school level and continuing Zero Waste practices. As the Primary Section Coordinator Liladhar Baskota proudly shared, “This program has changed the mindset of our children. They now understand that keeping their school clean is their responsibility, and they practice these habits with confidence every day.” This initiative has not only improved the school’s physical environment but has also nurtured a generation of environmentally conscious and responsible young citizens.